Community
3 February, 2024
‘True leader’ honoured
TULLY State High School principal Richard Graham is the Cassowary Coast’s citizen of the year for 2024.
Mayor Mark Nolan said Mr Graham’s leading roles in both school and community organisations made him a leader in every sense of the word.
“Richard has taken on countless leading roles in both school and community organisations, including the Innisfail Community Band, Innisfail Young Performers Committee, Far North Queensland Instrumental Music Working Party and Combined Sports Association to name just a few,” he said.
“Words can’t adequately describe what he has done for the Cassowary Coast’s sporting, cultural and educational landscape.”
Mr Graham said he was hesitant to take full credit for his achievements.
“To be nominated alongside such high achieving community members was an honour, and I attribute much of this award to my colleagues who do the hard yards behind the scenes,” he said.
“I might be the face of some of these organisations and activities but I’m just communicating the work and effort of the good people in the Cassowary Coast who’ve helped along the way.”
Young citizen of the year was council employee and Miss Riverfest Queen Rikki-Lee Broccardo, who was recognised for her exceptional contributions to the community as a youth advisory committee member, and devotion to the Innisfail Rotary Club, among other achievements.
Twenty-three of the Cassowary Coast’s most dedicated and accomplished community members received awards.
Cr Nolan said the award recipients represented an inspiring group with many talents and qualities that formed the foundations of the community.
“The Australia Day awards provide a significant opportunity to publicly recognise and celebrate our local heroes,” he said.
“Each and every recipient has made substantial contributions to improve our region.
“We are better as a community for their efforts and thank them for their continued dedication and service.”
2024 is the first year that the council’s youth sports bursary was included in the Australia Day Awards ceremony. The recipients were Elle Gracie (junior sports female 8-12), Shaun Riley (junior sports m, 8-12), Mia Wilson (senior sports female 13-18) and Kai Greven (senior sports male 13-18).
For the full list of awards go to www.cairnslocalnews.com.au
