The achievements of community-minded people throughout the Gunnedah Shire have been acknowledged locally and nationally on Australia Day.
Gunnedah Shire mayor Colleen Fuller OAM was announced in the 2026 Australia Day honours list as a recipient of a Medal of the Order of Australia for her significant contributions to organisations and local government.
Cr Fuller has dedicated considerable time to local groups and has served on council for almost two decades. She was elected as mayor in 2024.
Gunnedah Fire and Rescue captain David Welch AFSM was acknowledged for his outstanding service as a recipient of the Australian Fire Service Medal.
At Monday’s Australia Day celebration at Anzac Park, Cr Fuller was praised for the national recognition by deputy mayor Kate McGrath and Australia Day Working Group chair Rob Hooke.
The presentation of the shire’s Australia Day awards drew applause from the crowd. Nominees were presented with certificates followed by the announcement of winners.
Michael Broekman was honoured as the Evelyn Wise Award winner as the Citizen of the Year.
Mr Broekman was acknowledged for leaving a lasting positive mark as managing director of Namoi Valley Bricks.
Mr Broekman is known for his business leadership, community engagement and unwavering support for local initiatives.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Michael Broekman, pictured with wife Nicole, was announced as Gunnedah Shire’s Citizen of the Year at Monday’s celebration held at Anzac Park.
