Arabela Whitby has excelled as a judge at the Royal Easter Show. Photo: Glenys Lilley – Foxwood Photography.
Leeton nursing student and horse lover Arabela Whitby has been nominated for three Australia Day awards by her local council – Sportsperson, Achiever and Citizen of the Year.
“I was at work when I found out and thought it was amazing that I was up for three different categories,” she said.
“I didn’t think someone would go out of the way to nominate me; it’s nice to know, but I still have no idea who did.”
Ms Whitby is known for extensive volunteer work at the Leeton Show Society, which has led to her judging equestrian events at the Royal Easter Show.
“The awards are for a bit of everything. I was champion for the Young Judges at the Easter Show, and I was invited to be an associate judge in this year’s royal show, which is a big honour. I’m also working as an assistant nurse in aged care, but often help out in the acute section when they’re short staffed,” she said.
The 20-year-old finishes her degree to become a registered nurse this year.
“My passion is to become a registered nurse. I hope to gain some experience in a big hospital after I graduate and then use my skills back here in Leeton, where we really need nurses,” she said.
Arabela heads back to the Sydney Easter Show this year. Photo: Supplied.
Rising soccer star Ruby Miller, 18, is also in the running for the Sportsperson of the Year gong. She was the only Riverina representative of the Australian women’s squad who went to the Olympics for deaf people in Tokyo last year. She has also won a bronze medal in the School Sport Australia Swimming Championship as part of the NSW All-Schools team.
The following residents have also been nominated for Citizen, Lifelong Citizen of the Shire, Achiever and Sportsperson of the Year:
Julie Axtill – Nominated for nearly 25 years of leadership in education, arts, youth development, sport and her major role in the SunRice Festival.
Jarred Boyle – Nominated for his constant willingness to help others, stepping up at short notice to support fundraisers, events and community needs.
Lorraine McKellar – Recognised for more than 50 years of service to numerous Leeton organisations, demonstrating lifelong dedication to community wellbeing.
Shannon Morriss – Recognised for her tireless volunteer work across Whitton, supporting local schools, facilities, fundraisers and community organisations.
Brian Munro – Honoured for his long-standing service to Rotary and his leadership in major local initiatives including the Stories of Resilience breakfasts and Deb Ball.
Jan Munro – Honoured for five decades of leadership and volunteer service across community groups, schools, arts, service clubs and major events.
Anna Nardi – Acknowledged for her compassion and service through cancer fundraising and community support, even while facing her own health challenges.
Paul Smith – Celebrated for 15 years of dedicated volunteer rescue service with VRA Rescue NSW and extensive event support in the community.
Rebecca Van Den Heuvel – Recognised for her extensive contribution to performing arts, supporting musical productions, choirs and youth performers.
Roly Zappacosta – Nominated for establishing “Lap It Up Leeton,” a major charity event raising significant funds and bringing the community together.
The following residents have been nominated for Young Citizen, Young Achiever and Young Sportsperson of the Year:
Lucy Gilmour – Nominated for her exceptional year in athletics and cross country, breaking records and inspiring young athletes through mentoring and volunteering.
Hudson Stevens – Recognised as an outstanding young leader and multi-sport athlete who represented Riverina in four sports while serving as school captain.
Anna Woodlands – Celebrated for her active involvement in the Leeton Youth Council and her leadership in youth events and community representation.
The following have been nominated for Event and Organisation/Group of the Year:
Leeton High School’s Popstars Production – Recognised for a high‑quality musical production showcasing student talent, creativity and confidence.
Leeton United’s Under 14s Mixed Representative Team – Nominated for completing an undefeated season and securing their third consecutive premiership.
Leeton United Open Women’s Team – Celebrated for winning the 2025 2nd Grade Women’s premiership, the first women’s title in the club’s history.
Leeton Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) – Acknowledged for providing critical 24/7 rescue support, emergency response and community assistance.
Leeton parkrun – Recognised for delivering more than 230 weekly events that promote fitness, social connection and community wellbeing, making parkrun a valued and much‑loved activity for participants of all ages.
All nominations were assessed by an independent community judging panel, with sports categories reviewed against set criteria. The judges also reserve the right not to award a category, as awards are only presented when the criteria have been met and the nomination is considered genuinely deserving.
Award winners will be announced at the official Australia Day Ceremony at Mountford Park, which starts at 9:15 am on Monday 26 January 2026. All are welcome.
