Grace Ogomeni Named 2026 Young Citizen of the Year

With a portfolio overflowing with exceptional achievements across academia, sport and community service, 2026 Young Citizen of the Year Grace Ogomeni was recently recognised for her humble contributions to the local community at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Award Ceremony.

“Hearing my name announced, followed by the applause, was overwhelming in the most heartwarming way. I felt incredibly grateful and proud, not just of myself, but of the community that supported me and has given me so many opportunities to get involved – this moment meant a lot to me because it reinforced my sense of belonging and connection to the Burdekin community,” she explained.

“I hope that people understand my achievements and involvements were not done to receive recognition - I hope everyone sees instead that they are a reflection of my values and my commitment to make a positive difference wherever I can.”

In the past year alone, Grace’s resume of success welcomed several prestigious titles including Home Hill State High School Valedictorian, House Captain, School Captain, Burdekin Secondary School Athletics Age Champion, Lloyd Memorial Sportswoman of the Year, as well as several Subject Dux honours.

“I would say leadership came naturally to me; however, I still learnt and developed many leadership skills through leadership programs and personal experiences,” Grace said.

“Staying organised and knowing what needs priority at different times helped me manage academics, sporting commitments and community service - when my motivation dipped, I reminded myself why I was doing what I did – for example the goal of getting into medicine really pushed me to stay focused.”

Grace’s dedication to crafting an efflorescent future will see her commence medical studies at James Cook University this year.

“I am very excited to start studying medicine at JCU, especially for the chance to go on placement in rural and remote regions,” Grace enthused.

“In the future, I hope to make a positive impact by helping close the gap in healthcare access for rural communities like the ones I grew up in. I want to make sure people in these often-overlooked towns have the care and support they deserve.”

Grace credits the local community for shaping her into who she has become, explaining how the interconnectedness and small-town nature of the Burdekin Shire was instrumental in her upbringing.

“Growing up in the Burdekin shaped my values of community, belonging and kindness. In a small town you see the impact of community-wide support,” she explained.

“Through school, sport and community activities, I felt a sense of belonging, which made me want to make sure others felt the same. These experiences inspired the path I want to take in medicine, where I can continue to give back.”

CAPTION: Grace Ogomeni was named Young Citizen of the Year at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Photography

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