What’s happening?
Rebecca Cooper has been named Mackay Regional Council’s 2025 Australia Day Citizen of the Year for her outstanding contributions to community-building in the Northern Beaches.
The awards, presented on January 26, recognised individuals and groups who have made a meaningful impact in Mackay.
Other award recipients include Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty, Lori Burgess Community Volunteer of the Year Bonnie Spratt, and inaugural Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award winner Peter Sumpter.
Mayor Greg Williamson praised Cooper’s dedication, stating, “By bringing people together through fun, inclusive activities, Rebecca has nurtured a spirit of connection and support, helping to foster a vibrant, resilient and caring community that continues to thrive as the Mackay Northern Beaches area grows.”

Why it matters?
These awards celebrate individuals whose selfless efforts create lasting change in the community.
From youth advocacy to environmental conservation and accessibility improvements, each winner has played a key role in making Mackay a more inclusive and supportive place.
Rebecca Cooper’s impact has been particularly significant in the Northern Beaches, where she has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at fostering social connectedness. “Her work has helped to unite people from all walks of life, creating a space where everyone feels welcomed and supported,” Mayor Williamson said.
Similarly, Young Citizen of the Year, 16-year-old Murray Macgroarty, has raised over $22,000 to support homeless veterans, while Volunteer of the Year, Bonnie Spratt, has contributed to raising over $500,000 for cancer research.
Local Impact
Rebecca Cooper’s leadership has brought about numerous community projects, including:
- Mackay Northern Beaches Community Week: A 10-day event featuring 30 activities designed to build social connections.
- Mackay Northern Beaches Community Playgroup: A support network connecting about 60 families and more than 100 children weekly.
- Mackay Northern Beaches Community Network: An initiative using arts activities like ‘A Very Merry YarnBomb’ to strengthen community ties.
- Volunteer roles with Northern Beaches Lions and Seaview Parkrun.
Mayor Williamson highlighted the significance of Macgroarty’s dedication: “At just 16, Cadet Sergeant Macgroarty decided to walk 382 kilometres to raise awareness and funds for veteran homelessness.” His ‘Just Keep Marching’ campaign raised over $11,000 in its first run, with total contributions now exceeding $22,000.
Bonnie Spratt, 81, continues to serve the community through extensive volunteering efforts, including fundraising and support programs for cancer research, senior citizens, and adults with disabilities. “Bonnie handmakes thousands of gift tags and volunteers six to eight hours every day in the months of November and December, gift wrapping in the shopping centre to raise money for local not-for-profit organisations,” Mayor Williamson noted.
By the Numbers
- 136 nominations were received across nine award categories.
- More than $22,000 raised by Young Citizen of the Year Murray Macgroarty for homeless veterans.
- Over $500,000 raised by Bonnie Spratt for cancer research and local charities.
Zoom In
The inaugural Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award was presented to Peter Sumpter, a longtime advocate for disability sports. “Peter has coached the Mackay Machines Wheelchair Basketball Team for the past 17 years and runs weekly programs such as Wheelchair Dancing, Friday Fun and Wheelchair Basketball for people with disability,” Mayor Williamson said.
The Environmental Achievement Award was given to Maya Harrison, a passionate volunteer who works extensively with the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, Butterflies and Other Invertebrates Club, and Toad Busters. “Maya’s work is driven by her deep desire to make the natural environment accessible and understood by all members of the community,” Mayor Williamson stated.
Zoom Out
This year’s awards showcase the dedication of Mackay residents to causes that span community building, sports, environmental conservation, and history preservation. Mayor Williamson emphasised the collective effort involved: “Selecting a winner in each category was an arduous honour, and the sheer volume of exceptional nominees is a real testament to just what an amazing community we have.”
What to Look For Next?
The Mackay community continues to grow stronger, with ongoing programs and events set to expand on the work of this year’s award recipients. Mayor Williamson acknowledged local businesses P.Comino and Sons and Tropical Exposure, which have sponsored these awards for over a decade, ensuring continued recognition of local heroes.
Full List of 2025 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Award Winners:
Citizen of the Year – Rebecca Cooper
Young Citizen of the Year – Murray Macgroarty
Lori Burgess Community Volunteer of the Year – Bonnie Spratt
Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award – Peter Sumpter
Environmental Achievement Award – Maya Harrison
Arts and Culture Award – Steven Pritchard
Community Group Award – North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club
Young Sports Award – Monique Bobongie
Senior Sports Award – Dr Lutie van den Berg