A much-loved generational music teacher, and the 2025 Citizen of the Year, is encouraging the Douglas Shire community to get behind this year’s Australia Day Awards.
The ceremony will be held at the Port Douglas Community Hall on Friday, 23 January, commencing at 5.30pm, with a light supper to follow.
Last year’s Citizen of the Year, Jenny Guyett, said receiving the award was both an honour and a reminder of how much volunteer effort goes on behind the scenes across the shire.
“Reflecting on it, it was quite an honour. I was really pleased that the instrumental music programs in the schools and the bands were being appreciated, because there is a lot of work behind the scenes,” Jenny said.
“People have been congratulating me all year — people I hadn’t seen in ages.”
The Whyanbeel resident said the Australia Day Awards are particularly important in a small community like Douglas Shire.
“It’s important to recognise the efforts of individuals who help keep the place running — running the charities, supporting social events, the show, Anzac Day and all the different interests people have,” she said.
“It’s nice to see people who you don’t always realise are doing all those things get recognised.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the people who make a lasting difference to the community.
“Our Australia Day Awards shine a light on the extraordinary contributions made by everyday people across the Douglas Shire,” Mayor Scomazzon said.
“These are people who give their time, energy and passion to strengthen our community, support others and create a sense of belonging, and it’s important that their efforts are acknowledged and celebrated.”
Jenny also said the ceremony played a vital role in celebrating inclusion and shared community values.
“In the current climate, hearing the stories of immigrants and people who choose to become citizens is a really important part of the ceremony,” she said.
The Australia Day Awards recognise outstanding contributions across a range of categories. Further details about award categories and nominees are available on the Douglas Shire Council website.
