Community champions from across the Liverpool Plains were recognised at the 2026 Australia Day Awards, held at Club Quirindi on Monday.
Long-serving Quirindi Show Society president Lindsay Maybury OAM was named Citizen of the Year, recognised for more than five decades of volunteer service to the community.
Liverpool Plains Shire Council Mayor Ken Cudmore said the annual awards celebrated residents and organisations whose contributions continue to strengthen the shire.
“It’s an honour to recognise the work these people do within our community and the positive impact they have on the lives of so many,” Mayor Cudmore said.
The awards were presented during Council’s Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony, with prominent food journalist, events curator, and sustainability advocate Joanna Savill serving as the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador and delivering the official address.
Mayor Cudmore also acknowledged two Liverpool Plains residents named in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List, Mr Neville Holz of Willow Tree and Mr Robert Lewis of Quirindi, who were both awarded Medals of the Order of Australia.
The 2026 Liverpool Plains Shire Council Australia Day Award recipients were:
Citizen of the Year – Lindsay Maybury OAM
Lindsay Maybury OAM has dedicated decades to community service, from his early volunteering with Apex and Lions to helping establish the Quirindi Westpac Rescue Helicopter Support Group. He has led numerous local organisations, raised significant funds for Westpac Rescue Helicopter through events such as the Bush Dances and Drovers Run, and contributed strongly to initiatives including Farming for Kids. Through his hands-on leadership and unwavering commitment to the Quirindi Spring Show and wider community, he has made a lasting impact on the Liverpool Plains region.
Young Citizen of the Year – Brandi Frewin
Brandi Frewin is an outstanding young citizen whose dedication to community service is matched by her achievements in music, sport and education. Her musical talents have featured at major community events and competitions, while her sporting success includes representing the North West in cricket and excelling as a school athlete. Through her commitment, leadership, and well-rounded accomplishments, she is a highly deserving recipient of Young Citizen of the Year.
Marie Maunder Community Service Award – Peter and Bev Sawtell
Peter and Bev Sawtell have been pillars of the Werris Creek community for decades, known for their quiet and consistent dedication. Peter’s remarkable 70-year career with NSW Railways and their shared commitment to local organisations, including the Golf Club, Swimming Club, Little Athletics, and Meals on Wheels, highlight lives built on service. Bev has also served as a long-time church organist and co-founder of the Signal Signers. Their lasting impact on the people and traditions of Werris Creek makes them truly deserving recipients.
Local Legend – Dennis and Bev Moran
Dennis and Bev Moran are long-time pillars of the Quirindi sporting community, dedicating more than 50 years to tennis and serving two decades in senior roles on the Quirindi Tennis Club committee. Dennis has also maintained the courts, served 37 years as treasurer of the Quirindi District Cricket Club, supported veterans’ cricket and contributed to the Quirindi RSL Sub-Branch. Their enduring service to sport and community earns them recognition as Local Legends.
Emergency Services Community Award – Tim Honner
Tim Honner has served for more than a decade with the Rural Fire Service and is now Deputy Captain of the Willow Tree Brigade. He has responded to major incidents, including the Milson’s Gully fire and recent deployments in Victoria, while playing a key role in training new volunteers, coordinating multi-brigade exercises and supporting district-wide preparedness. His dedication and leadership make him a worthy recipient of this award.
Senior Sportsperson of the Year – Quirindi Lions Rugby Club, Central North Premiers 2025
The Quirindi Lions Rugby Club achieved a historic milestone in 2025, winning the Central North Rugby Union Premiership and ending a 33-year drought with a commanding grand final victory. The achievement reflected years of dedication and community pride, with match days uniting the town and inspiring future generations.
Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Percy Tourle
Percy Tourle has excelled across athletics, swimming, and cross-country, consistently achieving podium results at school, zone, regional, and NSW Country Championships. He has also earned major awards in rugby league and rugby union and represented his school in the PSSA Netball knockout finals. His achievements across multiple disciplines demonstrate exceptional dedication and resilience.
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