Community
31 January, 2025
Duo’s 40 years of service
CASSOWARY Coast’s 2025 citizens of the year are Helen and Terry Walsh, who have dedicated decades of service to the Silkwood and Kurrimine Beach communities.
They, along with 12 other people or organisations, were honoured at the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Australia Day awards last Sunday.
Mayor Teresa Millwood praised the award winners for their remarkable efforts, underscoring the invaluable role they play in enhancing the region.
According to the nominator: “Helen and Terry have dedicated over 40 years of tireless services to the local communities of Silkwood and Kurrimine Beach”.
“They have played vital roles in supporting and enhancing the community, either together or separately.
“Helen has served as president of the Kurrimine Beach-Silkwood Red Cross as well as various executive positions within the Kurrimine Beach Progress Association.
“Both have held executive roles in the Silkwood School P&C for decades. Terry has in turn held the position of president of the progress association and is currently vice-president.
“He was a driving force in the establishment of the progress hall, a significant achievement for the community.”
The young citizen of the year is Grace O’Kane.
She was recognised for her exceptional contributions to “our community and unwavering commitment to personal development”.
Her dedication to community service is exemplified through a series of notable achievements including 2025 Tully State High School captain, Year 10 and year 12 Long Tan leadership defence force award and Tully State High leadership award, Cairns Show young rural ambassador award andpanellist at the Ag Centric conference in Cairns.
“Grace is an exceptional young leader who embodies the qualities of a true role model,” said her nominator.
“Approachable and well-spoken across all age groups, she fosters teamwork and consistently contributes positively to her school and community.” .
Other winners included:
Lifetime contribution – Gordon Robertson
Community event/project of the year – Tully 100 Centenary Celebrations
Community group award – Tully Meals on Wheels
Young sports person of the year – Shaun Riley
Arts and culture award – Rosaria (Sara) Hughes
Young arts and culture award – Michelle Di Faveri
Young sustainable environment award – Goondoi Junior Ranger Program
First Nations fire award – Mitchell Martin.
