Long-serving volunteers and emerging leaders were celebrated at the Manilla Australia Day Awards, held at the Manilla Memorial Swimming Pool on Monday.
Amanda Ormiston was named 2025 Manilla Citizen of the Year for her many years of service to the Manilla community.
As a member of the Hunter New England Health District Manilla Board, Amanda works to ensure local health needs are addressed while promoting community health initiatives. She is also one of the coordinators of the popular Manilla Park Run.
Amanda has given extensive time to the Manilla Pony Club and has been deeply involved in Team Penning, both as a participant and a volunteer, reflecting her long-standing passion for horses and community sport.
Isabella Ormiston was awarded 2025 Manilla Young Citizen of the Year. As the 2025 Captain of Manilla Central School Secondary Division, Isabella has demonstrated loyalty, leadership and camaraderie in partnership with teaching staff and fellow students.
Alongside her academic achievements, Isabella is a skilled horse rider with a strong understanding of horse care and wellbeing. She is actively involved in the Manilla Pony Club and volunteers as a junior member of the Manilla Show Society, assisting with all ring events across the three-day show program.
Dr Kirralea Bartholomew was named 2025 Manilla Achiever of the Year in recognition of her professional excellence and voluntary service to the Manilla community.
Despite being relatively new to the town, Kirralea has built strong community connections over the past two years. Through her involvement with Manilla Presbyterian Church and leadership at the Scott’s Head Combined Churches Camp, she has provided opportunities for local teenagers to connect, socialise and grow.
Before the birth of her third son, Kirralea ran the Manilla Playgroup, working with Playgroup NSW to deliver safe and engaging activities for children. She also supported the establishment of weekly Kids’ Music Time, creating opportunities for children aged up to five to explore music and rhythm.
In her professional role as a GP, Kirralea was recognised as consistently patient, thoughtful, thorough and informative in her care of the community.
Attending the Manilla celebrations were Australia Day Ambassador Susanne Gervay and Tamworth Region Councillor Charles Impey.
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