Loxton and Waikerie Australia Day Awards 2026 Winners Announced
The awards celebrate leadership, volunteerism, and community spirit across Loxton and Waikerie.
LOXTON AWARDS
Citizen of the Year – Karyn Skewes
For more than 30 years, Karyn Skewes has been a driving force behind Loxton’s cultural and community life. As a musician, teacher, composer, and musical director, she has enriched the town through countless local productions, choirs, and community events. Karyn founded Music Alive, inspiring hundreds of students to discover confidence, connection, and creativity through music, while also providing employment opportunities and mentoring for young performers. Beyond her professional work, Karyn has devoted decades to voluntary service, leading choirs, directing musicals, and contributing to major community projects such as the Shine Illuminart projection. Her dedication, warmth, and leadership have left an enduring legacy in Loxton’s arts and community life.
Young Citizen of the Year – Ethan Grosse
Ethan Grosse exemplifies dedication and compassion as both a professional and a volunteer. As a Disability Support Worker at LAAS and Pastoral Care Worker at Loxton High School, he supports clients and students with care, guidance, and leadership. Ethan coordinates wellbeing activities, manages the school’s breakfast program, and mentors young people, fostering a positive environment for learning and growth. Beyond the school, he contributes to multiple church communities as a Youth Camp organiser, volunteer, and lay preacher. Ethan’s selfless service, organisational skills, and quiet leadership have made a lasting impact on Loxton’s youth and broader community.
Event of the Year – Loxton Charity for All Bingo
The Loxton Charity for All Bingo is a volunteer-led initiative that brings together community organisations every Thursday night at the Loxton Club. Organised by a dedicated team of eight volunteers, the event supports approximately 30 community groups each week and has distributed $53,681 back into the local community over the past year. Through meticulous planning and the generosity of supporters, the group enables community organisations to thrive. The Bingo Club would also like to acknowledge the ongoing support of the Loxton Club throughout the year, along with Woolworths for its regular donations, which help make these weekly Bingo nights a shining example of Loxton’s spirit of collaboration and giving.
Active Citizenship – Des & Kathy Schliebs
Des Schliebs has devoted decades of service to the Loxton community through a wide range of roles. He has contributed his skills in administration, project coordination, coaching, and mentoring across local organisations including the District Council of Loxton, Loxton Historical Village, Loxton Men’s Shed, Loxton Bowling Club, Rotary Club of Loxton, and the Nippy’s Loxton Gift Committee. Des is respected for his leadership, reliability, and willingness to support initiatives wherever needed, and his guidance has helped countless volunteers and community groups thrive.
Kathy Schliebs has also given extraordinary service, particularly through sporting and community programs. A long-time member of the Loxton Netball Club, she has served as president, secretary, treasurer, life member, umpire, and mentor, supporting generations of players. Kathy has also contributed to Loxton High School sports, local arts projects including Mini Silo Art and the Alawoona Silo mural, and numerous community events such as International Women’s Day and Loxton Swimming Club initiatives. Her organisation, leadership, and mentorship have strengthened programs, inspired volunteers, and enriched the wellbeing of young people and the broader community.
Together, Des and Kathy exemplify selfless service, active citizenship, and hands-on dedication, leaving a lasting positive impact on the Loxton community.
WAIKERIE AWARDS
Citizen of the Year – Colleen Andrew
Colleen Andrew has been a pillar of the Waikerie community for more than six decades. A former primary school teacher, Colleen has devoted thousands of hours to local churches, pastoral care, service organisations, and fundraising efforts. She has volunteered with the Red Cross, Rotary Club, and numerous community events, often providing support quietly and without recognition. Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2014, Colleen’s generosity, mentorship, and quiet leadership continue to positively influence the lives of countless Waikerie residents.
Event of the Year – ARB Waikerie Hotel Riverland Enduro
The Waikerie Hotel Riverland Enduro is one of the town’s most iconic events, attracting more than 60 race teams, extensive support crews, and over 1,500 visitors from across Australia. As part of the ARB Australian Off Road Racing Championship, the event provides a major economic boost to local accommodation providers, eateries, retailers, and tourism operators. Hundreds of local volunteers support the event through catering, gate management, and on-ground services. Beyond its economic impact, the Enduro positions Waikerie on a national stage, showcasing the town as a premier off-road racing destination while fostering community pride and collaboration.
Active Citizenship – Waikerie Wetlands Parkrun
Launched in January 2025, the Waikerie Wetlands Parkrun is a weekly, volunteer-run event promoting health, inclusivity, and community connection. Open to participants of all ages and abilities, the Parkrun has welcomed hundreds of people and engaged dozens of volunteers, fostering social wellbeing and encouraging active lifestyles. Beyond its health benefits, the event highlights the natural beauty of the Waikerie Wetlands and contributes to the town’s reputation as a welcoming and active regional destination.
Comments attributable to Mayor Trevor Norton:
“These awards celebrate the extraordinary contributions of our residents and volunteers. From the arts to sports, community care to environmental initiatives, these individuals and groups demonstrate the true spirit of service and active citizenship that makes Loxton Waikerie such a vibrant and connected community. We thank all recipients for their dedication and leadership, which continues to inspire and uplift those around them.”