The Rock Showground and Golf Course was the host location of Lockhart Shire Council’s 2026 Australia Day celebrations commencing with a community breakfast hosted by The Rock Showground and Golf Course, and The Rock Observatory Management Committees.

Council continued its participation in the Australia Day Council’s Ambassador program and this year’s Ambassador, Mr Rob Caslick, provided a great insight into what he loves about Australia and being Australian, and how, through the simple act of sharing a meal, can have a great impact on the vulnerable members of our communities.

Mayor, Cr Peter Sharp, presented the 2026 Australia Day Awards to the following recipients:

Citizen of the Year - Keith Fraser

• Dedicated more than 25 years to protecting and supporting the people of the region through his volunteer work with The Rock unit of the NSW State Emergency Service.

• Has responded to a wide range of emergencies including vehicle accident rescues, large animal rescues, storm and flood operations, missing person searches and major, multi-agency incidents.

• His actions during major flood events during 2022 both in the local area and at Eubalong were formally recognised at organisational and State levels.

• Involved in training and developing new SES operators, willingly investing his free time to ensure the next generation of volunteers are skilled, confident and safe.

“Keith has also been a member of the NSW Rural Fire Service since 2013 and is an active, dedicated member, and is currently Deputy Captain of The Rock Brigade.

• He embodies the values of leadership, community and selflessness. His unwavering dedication has enhanced the safety, resilience and wellbeing of the Lockhart Shire for decades.

Keith has received a NSW SES Commissioner’s Commendation, the National Emergency Medal, a NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation and SES Long Service Recognition.

Australia Day Awards - Margaret Cox

Margaret has devoted 30 hours each week for the last six years to developing and maintaining Tootool Rest Stop. Her efforts have strengthened local pride, increased tourism and showcased the warmth and generosity of the Lockhart Shire Community.

• Through her many voluntary positions Margaret is known for her compassion, reliability and commitment to service.

Melissa Brownlee

• Provides exceptional service to the local communities through equine and animal therapy – providing access to services for clients who experience transport and other difficulties.

• Gives continually of her own time to promote animal care, sharing her passion for Australian reptiles and other animals.

• Melissa’s commitment to bringing joy to those who experience difficult circumstances is to be commended.

The Rock Progress Association

• This local organisation, comprising seven current members, has been operating for more than 30 years.

• Played a significant role in the establishment of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in The Rock.

• Have participated in a wide range of activities that support both the local community and neighbouring areas, including during the 2020 bushfires.

• Work to provide opportunities for residents to connect, access information and support one another, thereby contributing to improved mental health and wellbeing across the community.

Sportsperson of the Year - Sam Douglas

• Sam had a strong 2025 football season

• Played U17s for Osborne – being recognised with the Under 17s best and fairest award and Hume Football League Junior Rising Star award in 2025.

• Played in the winning Kildare Catholic College Curry Cup and Carroll Cup sides on the same night.

• Represented his school in the State AFL Championships in Canberra – in the winning team

• Selected in the NSW State Under 15s team for the Australian Championships in Brisbane.

• Selected in the GWS Giants Under 15s Super 24 side against the Swans Academy for the third year running.

• Sam has been selected for the 2026 GWS Giants Under 16s Academy.

• He trains daily and shows a genuine passion for football, with a strong work ethic and commitment to continual improvement.

Joint Young Citizens of the Year - Serenity and Leilya Hayman

Serenity

• Volunteers for Hooves of Empowerment Equine and Animal Therapy, assisting with running the animal sanctuary.

• Assists the local community through training and participation in the NSW State Emergency Service from the age of 15.

• Serenity received the Citizenship award at Yerong Creek Public School several times and also received a Young person sporting award.

• In 2025 Serenity was named The Rock Miss Showgirl.

• Serenity is known as a kind, polite and respectful young lady.

Leilya

• Volunteers for Hooves of Empowerment Equine and Animal Therapy, assisting with running the animal sanctuary.

• Completed the NSW State Emergency Service Cadet program in 2025.

• Competed in The Rock Showgirl competition in 2025, winning her category.

• Leilya always presents a kind and giving personality, volunteering her time to help others and lend a hand.

The awards were followed by a citizenship ceremony conducted by mayor, Cr Peter Sharp, who welcomed our newest citizens, Sharon McIntyre and Tayla Black to the community, and thanked them for adding their history to our community’s diverse story.

Following the official ceremony the winners of the lamington competition were announced and kids (and kids at heart) enjoyed free zooper doopers. Those who were willing to brave the heat participated in a hole-in-one competition.