Australia Day Awards

The leadership and passion of Keelan Birch have helped transform Coffs Harbour into a destination for health, wellbeing, and community connection. As Event Director of the Coffs Harbour Running Festival, Keelan has grown the event into one of the North Coast’s most significant gatherings, attracting thousands of participants and raising an incredible $90,000 for local charities in 2025 alone. His vision has delivered not only world-class events like the Running Festival, Coffs Backyard Ultra, and Rumble in the Jungle, but also provided measurable benefits for local businesses and tourism. Keelan does all this voluntarily, on top of full-time work, proving that one person’s dedication can create lasting change.

Paul Butcher’s approach as President and founder of the Coffs Harbour Crusaders Junior Rugby Union Club has always been about inclusion and opportunity – embodying the very best of Australian values. He has built partnerships with schools, councils, and regional rugby bodies to ensure every child, regardless of background or ability, can find their place in the game. His energy and authenticity have inspired parents, volunteers, and coaches to give back, creating a culture of respect, sportsmanship, and fun.

Jane Sury has been a cornerstone of Legacy for over 20 years, combining professionalism and compassion in everything she does. Highly respected in the War Veterans’ community, Jane manages critical responsibilities such as reporting, staff coordination, board and AGM reports, and monthly meetings with exceptional skill. Jane is deeply committed to the wellbeing of veterans, families, and beneficiaries—liaising with Services Australia, My Aged Care, carers, and support services to ensure those in need receive timely assistance and advocacy.

Dr Rebecca ‘Beck’ Tallis and her team are doing great work to support women’s health in Coffs Harbour. Through her expertise, empathy, and unwavering commitment to patient care, Dr Beck has created a space where women feel heard, respected, and supported. Her approach goes beyond clinical. She listens deeply, follows through on every promise, and ensures that each patient receives the right care and connections. For many women, visiting Dr Beck has been a life-changing experience, providing them with relief and confidence.

Hayley Wild is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where women feel respected and heard, as a women’s health physiotherapist at Nurturing Her Physiotherapy. From thoughtful touches in her treatment space to strength-based communication and personalised follow-up, every detail reflects her dedication to patient wellbeing. Her work has improved quality of life for countless women in the community, through compassion, integrity, and excellence.

Richie’s commitment to inclusion extends far beyond mentoring. As President of the Mid North Coast Disabled Surfers Association, he ensures people of all abilities can experience the joy of surfing, while his volunteer work with Special Olympics and swimming programs reflects his love for sport and community. From coaching beginners to completing elite challenges like the 10km Bondi to Watson’s Bay swim, Richie leads by example; combining kindness, resilience, and generosity in everything he does as a role model and a true champion for inclusion.

Well-known in the Coffs kart racing community, Colette Morrison’s contribution extends well beyond budgets, strategy, and planning. As Treasurer of the Coffs Harbour Kart Racing Club, she has devoted countless hours to hands-on work, painting, cleaning, bolting tyres, catering for volunteers, running the canteen, and organising race days. Her efforts ensured the club was ready for the 2025 Australian Karting Championship. Her commitment helped the club earn the title of Australian Kart Championship Event of the Year; a testament to her passion and leadership.

Mayada Oso is an extraordinary young woman whose courage and determination have shaped a remarkable life in Coffs Harbour. Despite enduring unimaginable hardship, Mayada has chosen a path defined by strength, kindness, and purpose. Since arriving in Australia as a refugee in 2018, she has embraced every opportunity, mastering English, excelling academically, and graduating as School Captain at Orara High School in 2023, where she now works as a Student Learning Support Officer and goes above and beyond to support students in their learning and contribute to the school community.

Trinity Kachel has been an exceptional role model for young girls and the wider AFL community in Coffs Harbour throughout 2025. After a season-ending knee injury in late 2024, she could have stepped away from the sport she loves; but instead, she chose to give back. Trinity volunteered with the Coffs Harbour Breakers AFL Club, joining the committee and taking on key match-day responsibilities. Her advocacy for younger members and commitment to inclusion helped create a welcoming environment that encouraged more girls to get involved in AFL.

Robyn Henderson is an exceptional community volunteer whose energy and commitment have enriched life across Coffs Harbour. Since relocating from the Gold Coast in early 2024, Robyn has stepped up wholeheartedly, co-chairing monthly meetings for the Coffs Harbour Older Women’s Network, planning events, sourcing speakers, and writing weekly updates to keep members connected and informed. Her leadership provides older women in our community with opportunities for engagement, learning, and friendship.

Judy Farrell has been a dedicated member of the Park Beach Women’s Bowls Club for many years, giving her time and energy generously to support the club and its members. She served as Secretary for a long period before ill health forced her to step down, but with resilience and determination, Judy returned, first as Treasurer and now once again as Secretary. With over 100 members, Judy’s exceptional organisational skills keep the club running smoothly, and her leadership is valued by all.

Graham Smith has been a tireless volunteer with Legacy for many years, giving his time and energy to support veterans and families in need. At the Scarba Street Op Shop, he arrives early each day, handling everything from collections and deliveries to mentoring fellow volunteers. His cheerful nature and willingness to go above and beyond have made him a much-loved figure among staff, customers, and the wider community.

Terry Tweedie has dedicated more than 45 years to serving the community as a Justice of the Peace, and since 2018 has led as the inaugural President of the Coffs Harbour Branch of the NSW Justices Association. Twice a week for over a decade, Terry has volunteered at community desks at Park Beach Plaza, offering free JP services to residents. His commitment ensures that people have access to essential support delivered with professionalism and care.

Lorraine Kaempfel is an inspiration to our community and a shining example of resilience, joy, and lifelong learning. After moving to Coffs Harbour more than 30 years ago, Lorraine embraced an active lifestyle and discovered her love for dance; joining the Julie Ross Dance Studio and taking up tap at the age of 70. Now, well past her 100th birthday, Lorraine continues to attend classes and perform, delighting audiences and inspiring younger dancers who often say they hope to still be tapping at her age.

Bruce Robertson is an outstanding example of dedication and community spirit with a lifetime of service in rural NSW supporting Landcare, bushfire brigades, Rotary, and refugee resettlement. Bruce continues to give generously of his time in Coffs Harbour. Bruce volunteers as a driver for the community bus at The Shoreline, ensuring residents can enjoy outings and stay connected. His kindness and reliability make him a much-loved friend to many.

Sue Merrick has devoted her entire life to working with animals, demonstrating extraordinary commitment and compassion. For 26 years, she managed the local RSPCA, caring for countless animals and training dogs that went on to find homes across Australia. Her expertise and dedication ensured that vulnerable animals received not only shelter but the skills and confidence to thrive in new environments.

LifeHouse Care Pantries are a beacon of hope for families and individuals doing it tough across the Coffs Coast. What began in 1996 with a single tin of smoked mussels has grown into three community pantries attached to op shops in Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, and Toormina; plus outreach to Urunga, Bellingen, Grafton, and Moree. These pantries provide low-cost groceries, personal care items, and free fresh produce in a welcoming, store-like environment that ensures dignity and empowers people to make their own choices.

Tammy Mills-Thom is a true champion of community spirit and a driving force behind the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club. She has worked tirelessly, often on a volunteer basis, to contribute to the club; from supporting Commodore John Wait, to organising events and creating a welcoming space for members and visitors. Tammy also contributes to the City’s cultural life as a valued member of the Coffs Harbour arts community. 

David Cole is a true local hero whose quick thinking and courage saved a life. During a medical emergency, when the driver of a car fainted at the wheel, David acted immediately to prevent a tragedy. His calm response and decisive action ensured the safety of everyone involved, turning what could have been a devastating incident into a story of hope and gratitude.

For the past nine years, Stuart Davidson has been the backbone of the Coffs Harbour Rifle Club, serving as Secretary with unwavering commitment. His leadership has been instrumental in securing grants and expanding the Dairyville Shooting Complex, creating opportunities for local shooters and bringing national championships to Coffs Harbour. Stuart’s efforts have elevated the profile of shooting sports in our region and strengthened the club for future generations. 

Lifeline is far more than an op shop, it is a sanctuary of hope for those facing hardship in Coffs Harbour. The Lifeline team offers not only essential items but reassurance that help is available. It provides a welcoming space where individuals can find support, dignity, and connection during difficult times.

For more than 40 years, David Reynolds and Peter Faircloth have been pillars of the Coffs Harbour business community, running a local firm that has not only thrived but given back in tangible ways. Their commitment to training and mentoring young people has seen them support and develop more than 350 apprentices, providing skills, opportunities, and pathways to meaningful careers.