Revealed: 2025 Australia Day Award recipients for the Western Downs

From the captain of the Miles Fire Brigade to captain of Chinchilla State High School these are the exceptional individuals who have won awards on Australia Day.

Four Western Downs legends have been recognised for their contributions to the community at last weekend’s Australia Day Awards.

Ray Duncombe, Grant Dobel, Maggie Pyke and Joe Volker were announced as major Australia Day Award winners alongside 18 other individuals and community groups at ceremonies across the region.

Maggie Pyke aims to help tackle stress, anxiety and depression through her business growth idea, Xpression Yoga Academy.

The Regional Creative Arts Award was presented to Xpression Dance Academy owner Maggie Pyke following her extensive contributions to artistic community.

At her academy Ms Pyke offers a variety of dance styles for all ages and abilities as well as providing scholarships to support her students’ dance education.

Ms Pyke is also a member of the Chinchilla Early Years Connect Committee, conducts mental health and yoga workshops and assists the Chinchilla Christian College students with their school musical.

Joe Volker won an Australia Day Award

The Regional Sports Award was presented to sports star, Joe Volker who competes at a state and national level sin long jump, triple jump and the 100m sprint.

As well as his athletic endeavours Mr Volker also competes across team sports including cricket and football.

“His sportsmanship, respect for teammates, opponents, and officials, and his positive attitude, make him a role model for others in the region,” a press release said.

Inspector Warren Buckley (right) presents former Miles Auxiliary member Ken Brown (left) and captain Ray Duncombe with The Assistant Commissioner's Unit Commendation. Photo: Contributed

Captain of the Miles Fire Brigade, Ray Duncombe, took home Citizen of the Year award for his contribution to the Miles community.

“Ray is a true community leader — a mentor, friend and reliable figure during disasters and emergencies. His ability to stay focused in a crisis and communicate with people of diverse backgrounds, encourages all those who work with him to hold the same high standards,” the council press release said.

“Facing challenges with strength, determination, professionalism and a positive mindset, Ray’s service is an inspiration to everyone he works with.”

Grant Dobel won an Australia Day Award

Finally Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Chinchilla State High School School captain Grant Dobel for his involved in his local community.

Mr Dobel has made considerable contribution to music as a member of the Young Conservatorium of Music, conductor of the Chinchilla Big Band and member of the Chinchilla Concert Band.

He is also involved in local soccer and tennis clubs.

Western Downs Regional Council mayor Andrew Smith praised the award winners for their contributions to the community.

“It’s incredibly inspiring as Mayor to see so many exceptional leaders in our region, each doing incredible things to benefit their local communities and the Western Downs region as a whole,” Mr Smith said in a press release.

“We are extremely proud of all the individuals and community members who have been nominated, and in particular to Ray, Grant, Maggie and Joe for this well-deserved recognition.”

Originally published as Revealed: 2025 Australia Day Award recipients for the Western Downs