News
30 January, 2024
Our Oz Day Award Winners
The winners of Moreton Bay’s Australia Day Awards were revealed last Tuesday (January 23), with four remarkable individuals being honoured.
Martin Edge took home the Citizen of the Year Award, while Gail Robinson, Dan Broxham and Julie Kaeser all won the Mayor’s Community Spirit Award.
The aim of the awards is to recognise the outstanding achievement and dedication of individuals to the Moreton Bay community.
Martin Edge is an artist from Strathpine who dedicates his time to promoting arts and culture, as well as increasing accessibility awareness.
He is the ambassador for Autism Queensland and regular volunteer at the Pine Rivers Art Gallery, where he currently has an exhibition with a particular focus on supporting neurodivergent visitors.
“It is very exciting. It is an honour. I don’t do what I do to for recognition, but it is nice to be recognised,” Martin said.
“Winning this award can give people hope and send a positive message for people with a disability and those without a disability: don’t take life too seriously and be kind.
“Everyone should feel welcome. Everyone is welcome in my world. Everyone is welcome to see my world and enjoy my exhibition at Pine Rivers Art Gallery.”
"I do feel quite ordinary... but then again I also think we are all extraordinary given the opportunity" - Gail Robinson
Gail Robinson is another well known name, especially amongst the Maori and Pasifika communities.
The Pomona local worked in Moreton Bay for 17 years and still makes regular trips to the Bay to mentor parents and leaders through the Pasifika Families organisation.
Her leadership has led to Australia’s largest Polynesian festival, Pasifika Vibes Festival, drawing over 10,000 visitors to Lawton every year.
Beyond the Pasifika community, Gail runs cultural workshops that foster unity among diverse groups.
“I’m a bit humbled and embarrassed as I do feel quite ordinary...but then again I also think we are all extraordinary given the opportunity,” she said.
“The recognition did make me realise that the work I’ve done had actually achieved something and been taken on board by the Pasifika community, as well as the general Moreton Bay community.
“The childhood sector is important work, as that is where the best investment is to change communities.”
Christmas lights enthusiast Dan Broxham is also well known in the community, not only for transforming his Sparkes Road property at Bray Park into a dazzling Christmas light display, but also for helping those facing challenges during Christmas time.
Dan’s Chrissie light display emphasises accessibility, and his impact beyond the lights includes gifting giveaways, Christmas hampers, and giving away over 1,500 presents each December.
Lastly, Julie Kaeser has dedicated over five decades to community service.
An active church member, this school teacher fundraises and documents the Caboolture Rugby Club’s progress since its inception, and is a national volleyball representative.
She has also authored several books, preserving various local stories, and provides additional community support through Meals on Wheels.
Mayor Peter Flannery said the amount of nominees to pick from this year was a real testament to the strength of the Moreton Bay community spirit.
“Our Moreton Bay community is filled with countless stories of dedication, inspiration, selflessness and individual achievement and these awards are a great opportunity to acknowledge our local heroes,” Cr Flannery said.
“All of our winners this year have volunteered to support the community in some capacity, which is some of the most important work happening across our city. Volunteers truly are the lifeblood of the community in many ways.
“Each of them embodies compassion and devotion to service. They truly serve as the backbone and spirit of their communities, driven by a genuine desire to help.”
Congrats to all winners and nominees!
