General News
29 January, 2025
Cloncurry's beloved postie a popular winner of award
Graeme McDonald received a big round of applause when he was named Cloncurry's Citizen of the Year.
Cloncurry's Citizen of the Year couldn’t have been prouder on Sunday morning.
Graeme McDonald had a grin from ear to ear as a massive cheer went up to acknowledge the town’s beloved postie.
The 81-year-old has lived in the North West for six decades, but is still adjusting to Cloncurry, having spent most of his life on cattle stations near the Gulf.
“I’m proud, I’m very proud,” he said after receiving his award.
While most people in their 80s – especially those who have worked on the land for most of that time – would be looking for a comfortable chair, Graeme still gets around Cloncurry on his motorised scooter, delivering mail as the town’s only postman.
“I love it,” he said.
“I need something to keep me out of mischief.”
Cloncurry Shire mayor Greg Campbell said Graeme had long been a friendly face and reliable presence in our community.
“Beyond his postal duties, he is a dedicated member of the RSL and a passionate advocate for local initiatives,” he said.
“Graeme’s leadership and dedication extend back to his time as the general manager of various Stanbroke properties in the region, one being Fort Constantine.
“During those years, he showcased exceptional organisational skills and a deep commitment to the success of the community around him.”
Cr Campbell praised Graeme’s ability to bring people together and achieve shared goals.
“It is a hallmark of his character,” the mayor said.
“More recently, Graeme’s tireless efforts to rejuvenate the local bowls club have been nothing short of remarkable.
“His commitment of countless hours, energy and heart has brought the club back to life, creating a welcoming space for the community to gather, play and connect.
“Graeme exemplifies the true spirit of community service.”
The Citizen of the Year said he was proud to be an Australian and called for more unity across the nation.
Graeme said the subtle change in Advance Australia Fair from “we are young and free” to “we are one and free” should be noted.
“What I mean by that is we are one nation, whatever colour or creed we are,” he said.
“And ‘free’, to me, means our freedom of speech. If we’ve got those things, we’ve pretty well got it made, I think.”
There was a long list of award winners on Sunday but the entire community was presented with one gong from Cr Campbell.
The mayor dedicated his Community Spirit Award to the people of Cloncurry for their efforts during last year’s bushfires that threatened the township.
“The strength of the community shone through in the face of adversity. From the early hours of that Friday morning, the town’s emergency response teams, local businesses, and residents united to combat the fires and ensure the safety of all,” he said.
“Through your collective actions, the community showed remarkable resilience and spirit.
“Your dedication, support and hard work have not gone unnoticed.”
CLONCURRY AWARDS
Citizen of the Year
Graeme McDonald
Achievement Awards
Beryl Murphy
Elliot and Vanessa Watson
Clint Ashbacher
Cloncurry’s Queensland Fire Department team
Cloncurry Eagles Under-11 Laurie Spina Shield team
Arts and Culture Award
Irene Stewart
Community Event of the Year
Curry Merry Muster Festival
Volunteer of the Year
Carlie Maree Remfrey
Community Organisation
Cloncurry QCWA Branch
Senior Sports Award
Kierran Moseley
Dave Watt Memorial Junior Sport Award
Chelsea Saunders
Mayor’s Community Spirit Award
Cloncurry's Community Fire Response
Southern Gulf NRM Sarus Crane Award
The McDonald Family