The heroes of the community response to the flood devastation left in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Jasper in December 2023 were acknowledged with a standing ovation during Australia Day events in Cooktown on Sunday. Photo: Supplied.
The incredible efforts of 29 Cook Shire residents during the devastation following Tropical Cyclone Jasper in December 2023 have been recognised with a standing ovation at a special awards ceremony held as part of Australia Day events in Cooktown.
Cook Shire Council handed out Tropical Cyclone Jasper Community Heroes awards to the residents on 26 January for their courage, teamwork and selflessness during one of the region’s most challenging times, and were met with a wall of community praise as the full house at Cook Shire Hall rose to offer its thanks.
Nominated by the community, the local heroes played crucial roles in safeguarding the wellbeing of others, and embody just some of the extraordinary efforts made during the natural disaster as elected members and residents paused on Sunday to recognise the countless heroes who stepped up to support their communities when it mattered most.
Mayor Robyn Holmes said it was only fitting the 29 individuals were acknowledged by the community as part of the council’s 2025 Australia Day Awards ceremony.
“The Tropical Cyclone Jasper Community Heroes remind us of the incredible strength and unity within our community,” she said.
“It is our privilege to honour their contributions and sacrifices today alongside our Australia Day Award recipients.”
The recipients of the Tropical Cyclone Jasper Community Heroes award are Albert Dear, Alec Dunn, Andrew Chamberlain, Anna Cleary, Ariah Bolton, Belle Newman, Ben Broad, Brad Smith, Brett “Magoo” Little , Courtney Rollins, Craig “Prickles” Thorne, Craig “Yogi” Noble, Dave Bates, Dennis Dewaal, Gary Meredith, Gavin Dear, Geoff Schild, Georgina Dear, Jasmine Sieverding, Jessie McIntosh, Julie Hewlett, Katrina Hewitt, Nikki Gong, Pasha Lynch, Sandy Bates, Scott Ryan, Suzie Auld, Vasco Timmermans and Viola Reith.
