Community
29 January, 2025
Julia Creek volunteer wins McKinlay Shire's top gong
Ellen Dallavanzi is a quiet achiever in the Mid West community.
One of Julia Creek’s quietest achievers has been named the McKinlay Shire Citizen of the Year.
Ellen Dallavanzi has been a highly valued member of the community since arriving in the Mid West a decade ago.
The 30-year-old, who works at Elders, was honoured at a special Australia Day event in Julia Creek on Friday night.
“I’m very proud. It’s a small community and it takes a lot of people to do a lot of things,” Ellen told North West Weekly.
McKinlay Shire mayor Janene Fegan said the go-getter had set a great example for others.
“Since arriving in Julia Creek, Ellen has consistently demonstrated a commitment to her community,” she said.
“She has devoted countless hours to volunteering with various organisations and community groups.
“As a dedicated member of the Lions Ladies, Ellen has attended and supported every fundraising activity and event, from markets to bush dinners and the Christmas luncheon.
“She has also been a valuable member of the Julia Creek Combined Sporting Association and the Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival committees.
“Ellen’s efforts are not limited to simply volunteering her time. She has a great ability to inspire others to get involved.
“Whether she’s organising events, or just lending a hand, she encourages those around her to join in and make a difference.
“Her positive attitude, tireless work ethic and passion for building a strong, connected community have had a lasting impact.”
Ellen said she was looking forward to the events season, and even went out on a limb to name her favourite in the region.
“Probably Sedan Dip ... but I am on the Dirt and Dust committee so it’s probably half and half,” she said.
The dedicated volunteers said it was the locals and those who became locals that made Julia Creek and McKinlay Shire a great place to live and work.
“It wouldn’t be the place it is without the people that are here,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Wockner family was well represented at the awards ceremony, with Wendy collecting the Sports Administrator Award just moments after collecting her son Darcy’s gong, after he picked up the Senior Sports Award.
Darcy is currently in the United States where he is attending West Texas College as he fulfils a dream to be a top saddle bronc rider.
Sheree Pratt was named the 2025 Volunteer of the Year for her dedication to a number of events in the region.
The president of the Dirt and Dust Festival is also an active participant in the Julia Creek Combined Sporting Association.
McKinlay Shire also acknowledged Chris Rae and Stephen Malone with the inaugural Duncan Fysh Award for Professional Commitment.
Cr Fegan said it was appropriate to acknowledge their contribution to the community.
McKINLAY SHIRE AWARDS
Small Community Event
Women of the West International Women’s Day event
Large Community Event
Julia Creek Turf Club Artesian Express Races
Senior Cultural Award
Sylvia Crawford
Senior Sports Award
Darcy Wockner
Sports Administrator Award
Wendy Wockner
Volunteer of the Year
Sheree Pratt
Duncan Fysh Award for Professional Commitment
Chris Rae and Stephen Malone
Citizen of the Year
Ellen Dallavanzi