BURDEKIN VOLUNTEERS RECOGNISED AS STATE CELEBRATES COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS

Volunteers from the Burdekin SES are among the thousands of Queenslanders being recognised during the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. Photo source: Burdekin SES

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Thousands of volunteers across Queensland have been recognised as part of the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards, with the Crisafulli Government shining a spotlight on the vital role community volunteers play in regional areas like the Burdekin.

More than 49,000 volunteers were recognised through this year’s awards program, which celebrated 21 finalists, eight recipients and 275 nominations across six categories.

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Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said volunteers remained the backbone of communities across the state.

“Volunteers are at the heart of our communities, and our government is proud to be delivering practical support and recognition for the people who selflessly give their time to help others,” Minister Leahy said.

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In the Burdekin, volunteers play a critical role across sporting clubs, emergency services, youth organisations and community events, with many local groups relying heavily on community support.

“These awards are about honouring the thousands of Queenslanders who step up every day to support others, strengthen communities and deliver real impact across our state,” Minister Leahy said.

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CEO of Volunteering Queensland Jane Hedger said volunteers continued to support communities despite increasing pressures.

“At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together,” Ms Hedger said.

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The Queensland Volunteering Awards have been running since 2016 and aim to celebrate individuals and organisations making meaningful contributions to their communities.

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