Having taken home top honours in last year’s Queensland Day Awards, Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP is encouraging residents to nominate local treasures once again.

Last year’s Queensland Day campaign saw Bowen recognised for its most recognised icon and crucial industry in a show of strength for the regional community and with the return of the campaign once again, Mr Last said it was another opportunity to showcase the Burdekin Electorate’s best tourism attraction, cafe, bakery and beach.

“Bowen has pinned itself on the map as the home for some of our favourite Christmas table staples in our mangoes and our seafood industry, so it was only fitting Birds Fish Bar and Bowen’s iconic Big Mango laid claim to two awards in the 2025 campaign,” Mr Last said.

“We know there are even more positive contributions our electorate brings to Queensland from its camping and beaches to its tourism attractions and pubs. This is your chance to not only show your pride in our state but recognise the hidden gems in our region that would otherwise go unnoticed.”

Mr Last said the Queensland Day Campaign would go beyond recognising a favourite local coffee stop with the chance to shine a light on the people in our community who roll up their sleeves and show up for others.

“Every time our community is faced with hardship or challenges, we see local legends emerge, whether it is ensuring people can still easily access healthcare or providing a hot meal following a natural disaster,” Mr Last said.

“There are also people who go above and beyond each and every day for members of their community, volunteers who give their time freely or young achievers determined to make our part of the state a better place to live, work and play.”

“We want to see those deserving local legends receive the recognition and gratitude on behalf of the entire state.

Nominations for Qld Day Awards close 18 May for more information visit https://qldday.initiatives.qld.gov.au/awards/