History buff recognised with regional Australia Day Award
Published 23 January 2019
Renowned local historian and volunteer, Carmel Bond, has been awarded the Moreton Bay Regional Council 2019 Australia Day Award for Arts and Culture for her tireless efforts to preserve the history of Dayboro.
Carmel is the founding and current president of the Dayboro District Historical Society which has been collecting, collating and preserving the history of the town since 2004. The historical society, which is based in a heritage cottage on Williams Street in Dayboro, also provides visitor information.
Carmel is also a steadfast volunteer at community events and initiatives like the Dayboro Show Society.
Mayor Allan Sutherland said Carmel was an integral part of the fabric of the Dayboro community and congratulated her on the Australia Day Award win.
“Carmel and her volunteers have meticulously pieced together the rich history of this hinterland community and stories which were once lost to the dusty pages of family photo albums are now on display for everyone to enjoy,” Cr Sutherland said.
Councillor for Division 11 Darren Grimwade said Carmel’s contributions to her community were worthy of regional recognition.
“The history and cultural identity of Dayboro have been preserved for generations to come thanks to Carmel’s tireless efforts,” Cr Grimwade said.
“I’m delighted that Carmel is the recipient of this year’s Australia Day Award for Arts and Culture.”
Carmel was presented with her award at a special function for the region’s Australia Day Award recipients on Thursday, 17 January at Clear Mountain Lodge.
Other Australia Day Award recipients for Moreton Bay
Citizen of the Year - Elisha Wright, who has been instrumental as a disability advocate in the region through collaboration with Moreton Bay Regional Council on its Disability Access and Inclusion Plan.
Volunteer of the Year - Des Dewar, whose work with Deception Bay Meals on Wheels has helped nourish people in need for more than 25 years.
Sports Award - Mitchell James, an accomplished tennis player who has held the #2 ranking in Australian Singles for six years and currently holds the #1 ranking for Australian Doubles.
Youth Sports Award - Fraser Vaughan, a young BMX racer who has secured some incredible results in recent years both nationally and internationally.
Environment Award - Husband and wife team, Richard and Carole Green, who have made significant contributions to the region’s environment including the restoration and preservation of John Oxley Reserve.