Murrumbidgee Council is pleased to announce that Geoffrey Coombes OAM has been appointed as the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador, bringing a powerful message of community, wellbeing and social impact.

A purpose-driven social impact entrepreneur, Geoff Coombes’ work sits at the intersection of wellbeing, community and meaningful change. For more than 20 years, he has inspired Australians to unite behind the causes they care about, transforming how communities connect, collaborate and create impact together.

In 2007, he co-founded Tour de Cure, growing the organisation from just 29 riders into a national movement now engaging more than 15,000 participants annually. Under his leadership, the charity raised over $140 million, helped fund more than 150 scientific breakthroughs, and delivered vital cancer-prevention education to over 200,000 school students across Australia.

Building on this legacy, Mr Coombes launched STRYDE4 in 2023, a social enterprise that engages organisations in events and programs to strengthen workplace connection, wellbeing and culture, while raising funds for more than 40 charities nationwide. Its bold vision is to raise $20 million over the next five years and help Australia become a healthier, more connected nation.

In 2021, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his services to the community. As an Australia Day Ambassador, he champions the values of inclusion, generosity and community spirit, encouraging Australians to consider how they can do more to support the causes they care deeply about in the months and years ahead.

Mr Coombes will attend the Australia Day ceremonies at Coleambally and Darlington Point.

Murrumbidgee mayor Ruth McRae OAM said she is thrilled to welcome Mr Coombes as the 2026 Ambassador.

“His dedication to community, wellbeing and supporting causes that matter is truly inspiring. We look forward to welcoming him to our events and hearing his message about how we can all make a positive difference,” she said.

Reflecting on what Australia Day means to him, Mr Coombes said it is a privilege to visit regional communities and hear why people are proud of their towns, along with their hopes and dreams for the future.

When asked what makes him proud to be Australian, he points to the enduring spirit of mateship.

“Seeing people in need get the helping hand they deserve. There are incredibly generous people, not just with their influence, but with their time and willingness to lend a hand when people are in need.”