Narromine Shire Council recognised outstanding local residents on January 26 for their dedication, service and leadership across the Narromine and Trangie communities. Australia Day events were held locally in both communities.

Narromine

The Narromine Australia Day celebrations delivered a truly local flavour, featuring the traditional lamington cake cutting, the much-loved Narromine watermelon-eating competition, and a citizenship ceremony.

Despite the summer heat, the morning was filled with laughter, community spirit and celebration.

2026 Australia Day Ambassador for Narromine, Susie Elelman AM, warmly congratulated all award recipients and commended the community for its strong sense of unity and support.

“Australia Day is an opportunity to recognise the people who quietly and consistently make a difference in their communities,” Ms Elelman said.

“The recipients honoured today reflect the compassion, leadership and commitment that make Narromine such a special place.”

Ambassador Susie Eleleman AM, Narromine Citizen of the Year Margie Collins, Narromine Mayor Ewen Jones, and Cr Les Lambert.

Award Recipients – Narromine

• Narromine Citizen of the Year: Margie Collins

• Children’s Champion Award: Gabrielle Teale-McEvoy

• Senior Citizen of the Year: Dale Harding

• Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Dallas Boney

Trangie

Trangie came together in true community spirit to celebrate Australia Day 2026, with a jam-packed evening of recognition, celebration and local pride at the Trangie Bowling Club.

Hosted by the Trangie Action Group, the event attracted a strong turnout of local residents who gathered to honour the people who make Trangie such a special place to live.

The evening was led by Trangie’s 2026 Australia Day Ambassador Geoff Mann, the much-loved ABC Western Plains Radio and Dubbo Photo News sports journalist. Known for his passion of sport and storytelling, Geoff Mann praised Trangie’s strong volunteer culture and the people who continue to give their time and energy for the benefit of others.

“Communities like Trangie don’t just happen – they’re built by people who care deeply and show up time and time again,” Geoff said.

Award Recipients – Trangie

• Citizen of the Year: Terrie Milgate

• Senior Citizen of the Year: Kath Bennett

• Junior Citizen of the Year: Tawhiao Selway

• Event of the Year: Trangie Truck and Tractor Show

• Sportsperson of the Year: Adam Bond

• Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Kate Hoey

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Narromine Shire Council congratulated all award recipients and nominees in both communities, and extended sincere thanks to the Trangie Action Group for hosting another successful and well-attended Australia Day celebration in Trangie. See more photos on page 25.