Ipswich gathered with a sense of pride and gratitude to recognise the recipients of the 2026 Australia Day Awards, celebrating individuals and groups whose work continues to strengthen the city’s civic life.
The awards recognised service across sport, culture, volunteering, youth leadership and community wellbeing, reflecting the many ways residents contribute to a connected and inclusive Ipswich.
Citizen of the Year was awarded to Ali Brigginshaw for her influence on women’s and girls’ rugby league and her commitment beyond elite sport. A four-time NRLW premiership winner, 2020 Dally M Medallist, and captain of both Queensland and Australia to State of Origin and World Cup victories, Brigginshaw has remained closely connected to her hometown. Through regular engagement with Ipswich schools, she has encouraged greater participation by girls in sport and provided a visible example of leadership and discipline for young people across the region.
The Senior Citizen of the Year award recognised Elizabeth Gough for 40 years of service with Lifeline Queensland. Her long involvement supporting people in crisis, along with mentoring new volunteers, reflects decades of care, patience and resilience directed toward those in need.
Young Citizen of the Year Harrison Rule was acknowledged for his wide-ranging community involvement at a young age. His work includes charity cycling initiatives, homelessness support, Meals on Wheels, youth parliament and mental health advocacy, showing a strong sense of responsibility and a consistent willingness to give time and energy to others.
The Cultural Award (Posthumous) honoured Aunty Vera Short, a respected First Nations elder and founder of the Leichhardt–One Mile Community Centre. Aunty Vera is remembered for a lifetime devoted to community wellbeing and for building spaces of cultural strength, connection and support for local families over many years.
The Sport and Recreation Award went to CJ Mulvogue for her leadership in expanding girls’ and women’s participation in AFL at Collingwood Park Power AFC. Her work has also supported multicultural inclusion, helping grassroots football become a welcoming entry point for people from diverse backgrounds.
Springfield Mo-Men received Community Group of the Year for their contribution to men’s health across Ipswich. The group has raised more than $500,000 for health initiatives and built strong local partnerships, demonstrating the impact of community-led action when people work together with a shared purpose.
The 2026 Ipswich Australia Day Awards highlighted the depth of service, leadership and generosity found across the city. Together, the recipients reflected values of care, inclusion and commitment that continue to shape Ipswich’s strong sense of belonging.
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