City honours Australia Day Award winners

Published 24 January 2024

Four remarkable individuals have been honoured for their tireless efforts to make our community a better place during the City of Moreton Bay 2024 Australia Day Awards yesterday. 

Local artist Martin Edge took out Citizen of the Year, while there were three Mayor’s Community Spirit Award winners: Gail Robinson, Dan Broxham and Julie Kaeser. 

Mayor Peter Flannery said there was a high calibre of nominations this year for the awards, which recognise outstanding achievement and dedication to the Moreton Bay community. 

“We’re lucky to have so many amazing individuals who all could’ve won an award this year, which is a real testament to the strength of our Moreton Bay community spirit,” he said. 

“All of our winners this year have volunteered to support the community in some capacity, which is some of the most important work happening across our city. Volunteers truly are the lifeblood of the community in many ways. 

“It was a privilege to award Martin Edge with the Citizen of the Year award in recognition of his dedication to arts and culture, as well as increasing accessibility awareness in Moreton Bay. 

“Martin is a nationally recognised artist, long-time volunteer, ambassador for Autism Queensland and is a great role model and mentor.  

“It was also a great honour to announce three recipients of the Mayor’s Community Spirit Award; Gail Robinson, Dan Broxham, and Julie Kaeser.  

“Each of them embodies compassion and devotion to service. They truly serve as the backbone and spirit of their communities, driven by a genuine desire to help.  

“Our Moreton Bay community is filled with countless stories of dedication; inspiration, selflessness and individual achievement and these awards are a great opportunity to acknowledge our local heroes. 

“Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and award recipients.” 

For more information on City of Moreton Bay’s Australia Day Awards, please visit Council’s website. 

AWARD WINNERS: 

Martin Edge is an accomplished local artist from Strathpine, and proud ambassador for Autism Queensland. Martin has given countless hours to volunteering including at the Pine Rivers Art Gallery. Martin started painting in 2007. Since then, he has made his mark in Australian art by exploring his special interests through artwork and adventure-making. He is a mentor to others who also identify as on the autism spectrum. His current exhibition on display at the Pine Rivers Art Gallery, All the best, from Martin Edge, is an inclusive, playful, sensory experience with a particular focus on supporting neurodivergent visitors. Martin Edge is an inspiration to many, and Moreton Bay is a more vibrant and welcoming place because of him. 

Gail Robinson is a beacon of light in the Maori and Pasifika communities, driving positive change in Moreton Bay. Since 2004, she's made regular visits from the Sunshine Coast to mentor parents, and fostered leaders in various local organisations. Gail's visionary leadership transformed Pasifika Families, leading to Australia's largest Polynesian festival, drawing 10,000+ visitors annually. Beyond the Pasifika community, Gail's outreach includes cultural workshops that fosters unity among diverse groups. Her cultural contributions earned her Moreton Bay Region's Cultural Award in 2014. Gail's journey exemplifies the transformative power of community building, mentorship, and cultural celebration. 

Dan Broxham is a Christmas lights enthusiast who has transformed his Sparkes Road property at Bray Park into a dazzling display for many years, spreading joy in the community. Beyond the visual spectacle, Dan's generosity shines through, distributing thousands of presents to those facing challenges. He embodies Santa Claus throughout December, ensuring a magical experience for families, especially those unable to afford Santa photos. Dan's inclusive display caters to all abilities, emphasising accessibility. His impact extends beyond lights, with giveaways, Christmas hampers, and over 1,500 presents distributed each December. Dan reflects the true spirit of Christmas, inspiring a ripple effect of joy in the community. 

Julie Kaeser stands as a pillar of Caboolture, dedicating over five decades to community service. A school teacher with a profound impact on education, she is an active church member and key contributor to Sunday school and fundraising. Involved in the Caboolture Rugby Club since its inception, Julie fundraises and documents the club's progress. Her caring spirit extends to Meals on Wheels, providing support to the community. A national volleyball representative, Julie has also authored significant books, preserving various local stories. Julie's life intertwines with Caboolture's history, embodying love, resilience, and vibrant community spirit. Her legacy is one of enduring love and service.