January 26, 2026 – Brewarrina Shire Council is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising outstanding individuals, organisations and businesses whose contributions strengthen the heart and spirit of the community. This year’s winners reflect the resilience, generosity and leadership that define the Brewarrina region.
During the ceremony at the Brewarrina Memorial Pool, Brewarrina Shire Mayor Tom Stanton acknowledged the complexity of Australia Day and the mixed emotions it brings for many people across the country.
“We recognise that Australia Day is not a simple day for everyone. For many in our community, it is a day of reflection, sadness and resilience. As a Council, we acknowledge this truth and respect the diverse experiences and feelings held across the Brewarrina Shire and beyond,” Mayor Stanton said.
“At the same time, it remains important that we honour those who inspire us and make our community stronger and more vibrant every single day. These awards are not about celebrating a date; they are about celebrating our people. Today we recognise those who give their time, their skills and their hearts to our community. I congratulate every one of our nominees and award recipients and thank them for the positive impact they continue to make.
“Council also extends its gratitude to our 2026 Ambassador, Peter Orcher. Local ambassadors such as Mr. Orcher play a vital role, embodying our community’s values and spirit while encouraging others through their dedication, perseverance and commitment,” added Mayor Stanton.
“Mr. Orcher’s achievements exemplify the strength and talent within the Brewarrina Shire and illustrate the influence local leaders can have, particularly when they empower members of the community.
“On behalf of Brewarrina Shire Council and the wider community, congratulations to all award recipients and thank you for your outstanding contributions to our community. Your dedication, leadership and generosity inspire us all and reflect the very best of the Brewarrina Shire,” concluded Mayor Stanton.
Gary Peterson has been honoured as Senior Citizen of the Year for his extraordinary dedication to supporting vulnerable men and strengthening community wellbeing. Through his work with Mission Australia, Gary has helped countless men secure stable housing and access essential mental health and wellbeing services.
His commitment extends far beyond his professional role. Gary has volunteered countless hours providing maintenance support to the local preschool and creating opportunities for fathers to participate and contribute. Each year, he also brings joy to local families by stepping into the role of Santa Claus for community celebrations.
Known for his kindness, humility and unwavering generosity, Gary gives his time not out of obligation but out of genuine care for others. His impact on Brewarrina is profound, and this recognition reflects the deep respect and gratitude felt across the community.
Alice Gordon has been named Citizen of the Year for her exceptional service to public health and her tireless commitment to rural and remote communities. With 17 years of experience in the health sector, Alice has worked extensively in child, family and antenatal care before joining the COVID‑19 response team during the pandemic.
Now an Immunisation Officer with the Public Health Unit, Alice covers two vast health districts, ensuring children across western NSW — from Bathurst to Goodooga, Broken Hill to Wentworth — have access to vital vaccinations. She played a key role in developing a clinician‑upskilling program so successful it has since been adopted statewide, earning accolades including Excellence in Aboriginal Health Care and Excellence in Multicultural Health Care.
Beyond her professional achievements, Alice serves as a retained firefighter with Fire and Rescue NSW, mentors young women and volunteers on numerous community boards and committees. Her leadership, dedication and community spirit make her an inspiring role model for Brewarrina and beyond.
Mackinley Codrington has been awarded Sportsperson of the Year following an exceptional year in clay target shooting. A member of both the Western Zone Ladies Team and the NSW State Ladies Shoulder‑to‑Shoulder Team, Mackinley has excelled at state and national levels.
Achievements over the past 12 months include 2025 Commonwealth Ladies Pointscore Champion, 2025 Commonwealth Ladies Double Rise Champion, 2025 Commonwealth Ladies Overall Highgun Winner and Multiple Overall Highgun Championships across Coonamble, Brewarrina, Cunnamulla and Warren.
Her biggest milestone this year is competing for Australia at the 2026 World Clay Target Championships in New Zealand. Mackinley’s dedication, skill and sportsmanship make her a standout athlete and a proud representative of the Brewarrina Shire.
Eight‑year‑old Alaina Richards has been recognised as Young Sportsperson of the Year for her remarkable commitment to swimming, athletics and cross‑country running. Despite living remotely and completing her schooling through distance education, Alaina trains consistently year‑round and competes with determination and enthusiasm.
Her achievements include representative swimming at Central West NSW carnivals, regular squad and off‑season training at Lightning Ridge, zone and regional representation in athletics, Bourke PSSA Cross Country – Junior Girls Champion, Bourke PSSA Athletics – Junior Girls Runner‑Up Champion and Western Athletics representative.
Competing against older age groups, Alaina consistently demonstrates resilience, sportsmanship and a genuine love of sport that inspires those around her.
The Brewarrina Central School 150‑Year Reunion has been awarded Community Event of the Year for its outstanding celebration of education, culture and community connection.
More than 650 past students, staff and community members returned for four days of events honouring the school’s history and the stories of generations. The reunion featured a formal assembly, classroom tours filled with shared memories, and a museum exhibition showcasing photographs, artefacts and recorded interviews.
What began as a small organising group of four grew into a dedicated team of 18 volunteers who spent countless hours gathering, curating and presenting historical materials. Their efforts created a deeply meaningful event filled with joy, reflection and reconnection — a powerful reminder of the strength of community in Brewarrina.
South Bre Butchery has been recognised for its exceptional contribution to youth development, community support and local opportunity. Owners Daniel Ferguson and Samantha Anni‑Brown have worked closely with Brewarrina Central School and the Clontarf “Bundar Program” to provide hands‑on training and employment for seven young men.
Their mentorship focuses on practical skills, workplace responsibility and personal growth, helping young people build confidence and pathways to future employment. Beyond this, South Bre Butchery consistently supports community events, donates goods, and offers sponsorships — all driven by genuine kindness and a commitment to Brewarrina’s future.
Their leadership and generosity embody the spirit of community service and make them highly deserving of this honour.
Christopher McHughes has been honoured for his courage, leadership and positive influence within the Brewarrina community. Although he has recently moved away, Christopher remains deeply connected to Brewarrina and continues to demonstrate his commitment to the town.
While visiting recently, Christopher was among the first on the scene of a local fire, acting quickly to help extinguish it and protect the community he loves. Known for his drive, resilience and strong role‑model presence, Christopher is admired by many and continues to inspire young people through his determination and community spirit.
The Culgoa Community Sports Club has been recognised for its vital role in fostering connection, wellbeing and resilience in an isolated outback region. Entirely volunteer‑run, the Club provides a lifeline for locals through regular sporting days, family barbecues, raffles and beloved annual events such as the St Patrick’s P&F Ball and the Culgoa Christmas Party.
In a community where distance and drought can take a toll, the Club creates a safe, welcoming space where people can gather, laugh and support one another. Their work strengthens mental health, builds social bonds and ensures no one feels alone. The Club exemplifies what it means for locals to look after locals.
Elected to Council – 2024
Elected to Council – 2024
Elected to Council – 2024
Committees – Roads and Maritime Services Regional Consultative Committee & Western Regional Weeds Committee
Elected to Council – 2021
Elected to Council – 2021
Committee – Tourism & Cultural Committee
Elected to Council – 2021
Committees – Murray Darling Association, Big Sky Library, Brewarrina General Cemetery Committee, Water Users & Tourism & Culture Committee.
Elected to Council – 2021
Committees – Aged Care, Brewarrina General Cemetery Committee & Heritage Committee.
Elected to Council – 2008
Email- markbrown2839@gmail.com
Committees- Aged Care Committee, Big Sky Library & Traffic Committee.
Elected to Council – 2008
Committees – Brewarrina General Cemetery, Tourism & Cultural Committee.
Elected to Council 2017
