What’s Happening?
The winners of the inaugural 2026 Queensland Day Best of the Redlands Awards were announced on 6 June 2026.
The awards were hosted by Member for Redlands Rebecca Young MP, Member for Capalaba Russell Field MP and Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker MP.
Every finalist was nominated by peers, customers, neighbours, friends or community members.
The awards recognised local people, places, businesses and groups that strengthen the Redlands community.
Member for Redlands, Rebecca Young MP, said the awards were created to shine a spotlight on the people and places that help make the Redlands such a remarkable community.
“In a world where we often hear about what’s going wrong, the Best of the Redlands Awards have been about celebrating everything that’s right in our community,” Mrs Young said.
“From volunteers and educators to community groups, sporting clubs and local businesses, these awards recognise the people who quietly make a difference every single day.”
Why It Matters?
The awards gave locals a clear way to thank people who often serve without seeking attention.
They also showed how much residents value volunteers, educators, businesses, clubs and community groups.
Member for Capalaba Russell Field MP said the response showed deep pride in the local area.
“The stories behind the nominations were inspiring and often incredibly moving,” Mr Field said.
“Every finalist was recognised by someone who took the time to say thank you, and that makes this recognition especially meaningful.”
Local Impact
The winners reflect service across emergency response, education, sport, business, dining and local experiences.
They also show how community work can shape daily life across Redlands, Capalaba and Oodgeroo.
Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker MP said the campaign brought communities together.
“This has been a fantastic initiative that celebrates local pride, community spirit and the people who make our region such a great place to live,” Mrs Stoker said.
“Queensland Day is about celebrating who we are, and these finalists and winners represent the very best of the Redlands.”
By The Numbers
The first Best of the Redlands Awards drew strong local interest, with residents helping decide the winners.
- Close to 5000 votes were cast by the community to choose local champions.
- Three MPs hosted the awards across Redlands, Capalaba and Oodgeroo.
- Eleven award categories recognised people, groups, businesses and local experiences.
Zoom In
The 2026 Best of the Redlands Award winners are:
- Redlands Legend Award, Graham and Marilyn Williams, with Graham recognised for 50 years’ service to Lions and Marilyn for her commitment to Blue Care.
- Heart of the Redlands Award, Jean Wilson from Redland Community Centre.
- Shaping the Future Award, Rachel Mohr from Russell Island Kindergarten.
- Community Hero Award, Dianne Vandermeer, SES Volunteer.
- Stronger Together Award, Point Lookout Surf Life Saving Club.
- Game Changer Award, Mike King from Redlands Rugby Union, Muddies.
- Next Generation Award, Sophie Cufflin, President of Lions Club of Capalaba.
- Local Business Excellence Award, Lyndsey from Gelatissimo Victoria Point.
- Best Dining Experience Award, Elysium Victoria Point.
- Redlands Experience Award, Straddie Brewing Co.
- People’s Choice, Harlan Goode, Australian Idol runner-up.
Zoom Out
The Best of the Redlands Awards were established to mark Queensland Day by celebrating local character, spirit and success.
They also recognised the people, places, businesses and community organisations that make Redlands a special place to call home.
For many finalists, the recognition came from people who had seen their work up close.
That made the awards a public thank you from the community.
What To Look For Next?
With the awards now established, the next step is how the community builds on this first Queensland Day celebration.
The strong response shows there is clear local support for recognising people who make a difference across the Redlands.
