A NEW grassroots awards program aimed at celebrating the region’s unsung heroes has been launched with local MPs calling on residents to nominate those making a difference across the community.
Member for Redlands Rebecca Young, Member for Capalaba Russell Field and Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker today announced the “Best of the Redlands” initiative, with winners to be revealed at a special event on Queensland Day (June 6).
The program invites locals to nominate individuals, businesses and community groups who go above and beyond, highlighting the contributions that help shape life across the Redlands.
“Queensland Day is about more than history, it’s about the people who shape our communities every day,” Mrs Young said.
“Best of the Redlands is about recognising the volunteers, small business owners, educators and local legends whose contributions often go unseen but never unnoticed.”
Mr Field said the program is designed to bring the community together.
“This is a chance for locals right across the Redlands region to celebrate the people who make a real difference,” he said.
“We want to hear the stories that define our community.”
Mrs Stoker said the Best of the Redlands awards would recognise the people and organisations who help make the region such a great place to live, work and raise a family.
“The Redlands is one of the best places in Queensland to call home, and that is because of the people who invest their time, energy and heart into this community,” she said.
“Best of the Redlands is about giving those people, businesses and community groups the recognition they deserve.”
Residents can nominate across a wide range of categories, including Redlands Legend, Heart of the Redlands (Volunteer Award), Shaping the Future (Education), Community Hero (Health and Emergency Services), Stronger Together (Community Group), Game Changer (Sport), Next Generation (Rising Star), Local Business Excellence, Best Dining, Redlands Experience (Tourism), and a People’s Choice award spanning all categories.
Nominations are now open, with the process encouraging residents to put forward a local champion, share their story, vote for finalists and celebrate winners at the Queensland Day event.
To nominate, visit: https://listen2qld.com/best-of-redlands
THE BEST OF REDLANDS – Categories and descriptions
Redlands Legend Award
Recognising individuals who make a lasting impact and go above and beyond for our
community.
Examples: long-time community leaders, local champions, volunteers, or individuals known
for their ongoing contribution.
Heart of Redlands Award (Volunteer)
For those who give their time, support others, and strengthen our community.
Examples: volunteers at community groups, sporting clubs, charities, events, or those
helping neighbours in need.
Shaping the Future Award (Education)
Celebrating educators who inspire, guide and shape the next generation.
Examples: teachers, teacher aides, school leaders, early childhood educators, or mentors
working with young people.
Community Hero Award (Health, Nurses, Emergency Services)
Honouring those who care for and protect our community every day.
Examples: nurses, doctors, paramedics, allied health professionals, police, firefighters, SES
volunteers or emergency responders.
Stronger Together Award (Community Group)
Recognising groups that bring people together and make a difference locally.
Examples: not-for-profits, sporting clubs, volunteer groups, cultural organisations, or
community associations.
Next Generation Award (Rising Star)
For young people making their mark and shaping the future of Redlands.
Examples: students, apprentices, young leaders, artists, athletes, or young entrepreneurs.
Game Changer Award (Coach / Sport)
For those who lead, mentor and build strong teams in our community.
Examples: sporting coaches, trainers, club mentors, or volunteers supporting junior and
senior teams.
Local Business Excellence Award
Celebrating businesses that consistently deliver outstanding service and support the local
economy.
Examples: small businesses, retail stores, tradies, service providers, or family-run
businesses known for great customer experience.
Best of Redlands Dining Award
Recognising the restaurants, cafés and venues that create great local dining experiences.
Examples: cafés, restaurants, takeaway venues, bars, or local eateries people love to visit.
Redlands Experience Award (Tourism / Attraction)
Celebrating the businesses and attractions that showcase the best of Redlands.
Examples: tourism operators, island experiences, eco-tourism, local attractions, tours, or
unique visitor experiences.
People’s Choice (applies across all categories)
The community decides — vote for your favourite.
Examples: any nominee across all categories can be selected by popular vote.
