What’s Happening?
Nominations are still open for the 2026 QLD Day Awards.
Queenslanders are being urged to recognise someone who stands for what it means to be a Queenslander.
The awards are seeking local legends, young achievers, outstanding organisations and remarkable individuals.
The search for great Queenslanders is already underway, with nominations coming in across the state.
The initiative forms part of QLD Day 2026 on 6 June.
It aims to recognise people who give back, support others and make a real difference in their communities.
Whether it is a volunteer, a local achiever or a community champion, the awards offer a public way to say thank you.
Nominations close on Monday, 18 May 2026.
Why It Matters?
Many Queenslanders make a difference without seeking praise.
The QLD Day Awards aim to recognise people who quietly help others and strengthen community life.
Jane Hedger, CEO of Volunteering Queensland, said volunteers are a strong example of award-worthy Queenslanders.
“We don’t always remember to show our appreciation for those people who are just busy doing the do,” Ms Hedger said.
“The Qld Day Awards are a great way to see those Queenslanders who quietly make the world go round and say thank you.”
The awards also help highlight the values linked to Queensland Day, including service, resilience and community care.
By the Numbers
- 6 June is Queensland Day, marking the state’s official separation from New South Wales.
- 1859 was the year Queensland became an independent state.
- Monday, 18 May 2026 is the final day to submit a nomination for the 2026 QLD Day Awards.
Local Impact
The awards give communities a chance to put their own local champions forward.
Last year’s Local Legend award recipient, Carina Chesson, a high school teacher and SES volunteer, said the recognition was humbling.
“The announcement was truly humbling and even a little embarrassing, as I felt there were hundreds of Ingham local legends who assisted those in need in the devastating 2025 floods.”
“It was amazing, though to have my wonderful small rural town of Ingham acknowledged as well.”
Her story shows how the awards can recognise both individuals and the communities behind them.
Gympie Medical Scientist Hannah Johnston, another 2025 Local Legend, said the awards were a chance to honour people across many fields.
“This is a time to celebrate all the outstanding contributions our fellow neighbours, front line workers, teachers, and everyone in between; to remind them how amazing their stories of dedication for communities truly are,” Ms Johnston said.
Zoom In
The QLD Day Awards are not limited to one type of nominee.
They are open to people and organisations making a clear contribution to Queensland life.
That may include volunteers who step up during hard times, workers who serve their communities, teachers, young achievers and people who support others without public attention.
Proud Queensland Day Ambassador and Queensland Great Kay McGrath encouraged Queenslanders to take part.
“Queensland Day is a chance for us to come together and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this extraordinary state,” Ms McGrath said.
Zoom Out
Queensland Day is held every year on 6 June.
The date marks Queensland’s official separation from New South Wales in 1859.
In 2026, the awards are being used to celebrate the people who reflect Queensland’s community spirit.
The message is simple, most people know someone who gives more than they take.
The QLD Day Awards are a chance to recognise them properly.
What To Look For Next?
With nominations closing on Monday, 18 May 2026, Queenslanders still have time to put forward a local legend.
The next stage will be seeing which community champions, volunteers, achievers and organisations are recognised as part of QLD Day 2026 on 6 June.
