Local citizens recognised on
Australia Day
A ceremony was held on Monday morning at the rotunda to celebrate Australia Day and recognise community champions. After a welcome from Maureen Davis and address by Michael Weyman the citizens awards were presented.
2026 Moruya Citizen Of The Year:-Mike Hallahan
Congratulations to Mike Hallahan who has been quietly volunteering for numerous organisations within our local community for the past 30 + years.
From Surf Life Saving (former Moruya Surf Club president) to working with local schools within our town (both Primary & Secondary Schools) through to Special Nippers Program. Mike has also been involved in many other Moruya events, too numerous to recall. Mike is one of those “quiet achievers” who just helps “get the job done.”
2026 Moruya Volunteer of the Year: Andrew Nader
Congratulations to Andrew Nader who is another of those quiet achievers who volunteers to assist almost every major public event in Moruya.
Andrew has been volunteering for the Moruya RSL at many events for at least the past 15 years. He volunteers at the Moruya Rodeo, the Moruya Remembers Committee (and WW2 bunkers at north head). Even over this very weekend, Andrew was braving the searing heat and was one of the many “green army” of workers who make the Eurobodalla Show happen.
2026 Moruya Community Spirit Award: Cliff Southcombe
You might not know his name, but if you have ever gone “Christmas Lights” patrolling over the past 25 years in Moruya ….. you may know his face! You will certainly acknowledge that the best Christmas lights in all of Moruya, are on a house in Bergalia Street (over near the Moruya Cemetery).
Congratulations to Mr. Cliff Southcombe in receiving the Moruya Community Spirit Award for 2026.
You have always been there to bring a smile to the faces of little children and adults alike, through your hard work and spreading of Christmas cheer. And let’s face it, right now, the world needs the spirit of Christmas 365 days of the year!
Cliff spends at least two months before Christmas day, setting up his spectacular light show. And joked today that he is still pulling power cords down and packing decorations away into safe storage, now in late January!
Cliff, the town of Moruya extends their heartfelt thanks to you for what you quietly do for this town to raise our spirits at Christmas time. You truly are bursting with Community Spirit.
2026 Moruya Junior Citizens of The Year (co-awarded):
Moruya Tuross Junior Rugby League U16s — the 2025 team
Let it be said that Australia Day awards are not normally given, for sporting achievement alone. Otherwise, every person in this town who has done well at sport will be lining up for a trophy.
But with the example set by Moruya’s favourite son, the wonderful Mick Weyman ….. we all know what can be achieved on the sporting field ….. and often this is reflected off the field.
It is important for young people to understand that when you pull on a jersey …. Which bears the name ‘Moruya’ …. You are not just representing yourselves and your team mates. But you are representing your entire town.
Wearing the name of Moruya on their chests last year … It is my understanding this team was undefeated throughout the entire 2025 season and went on to win the Grand Final. When you win, it is a win for everybody in this town who has influenced you in some way. From your parents, of course ….. through to your school teachers and just as importantly, the coaches and support staff within the club who work for you, behind the scenes.
2026 Moruya Junior Citizens of The Year (co-awarded):
Congratulations to Harper Lasscock, Maya Colburn & Lila Weyman.
These three wonderful young Ambassadors for Moruya put their bodies on the line as representatives of our town for the Regional Women’s Rugby League Team “The South Coast Marlins”. Their goal …. to create a supportive environment for young women in Country Rugby League. As stated when their footy playing counterparts were awarded their trophy, Australia Day awards are not normally given, for sporting achievement alone.
But these three young ladies are pioneers in a traditionally male sport and are wonderful advocates for women’s sport in general.
Congratulations from the town of Moruya, for representing our small community on the big stage!
ESC councillors Anthony Mayne and Rob Pollock attended. The event was organised by Greg Malavey, Gary Traynor, John Gillett, Tubby Harrison, Kieran Kay, Kay Nash, Lorne Thomas, Sandra and John Spencer, Graham and Michelle Scobie.
Source: Moruya Australia Day Ceremony