MEDIA STATEMENT: Queensland Day 2025: Queensland Day Local Legends revealed

QUEENSLAND DAY 2025
Queensland Day Local Legends revealed

Five Queenslanders recognised as Queensland Day Local Legends.
Community leaders, veterans’ supporters and volunteers awarded for selfless contributions.
Inaugural awards program launched to honour Queensland’s 166th birthday.

Five Queenslanders who embody the State spirit and enrich their community by supporting others have been honoured with inaugural Queensland Day Local Legend Awards.

Premier David Crisafulli bestowed the title on recipients at a ceremony in Brisbane to mark Queensland’s 166th birthday.

The 2025 Queensland Day Local Legends are:

Adam Ballard, whose nomination described him as “the heart of Longreach” for his volunteer work across many different areas.
Carina Chesson, a teacher who was “a lifeline for her community” during the Ingham floods in February.
Hannah Johnston, a Graduate Medical Scientist who raised $75,000 for the Gympie District Show as her way to give back.
Aunty Jenny Springham, described as “a local Bundaberg Legend” who volunteers her time in Domestic and Family Violence prevention.
Martin Shaw, who is the President of Wounded Heroes Australia and “has worked 7 days/week since 2011” supporting veterans and their families.

More than 1,000 nominations were received from across the State to award community members who go above and beyond everyday service with acts of kindness and volunteering.

In addition to community recognition, the Local Legends receive a certificate presented by the Premier, entry to the Dolphins versus St. George Illawarra Dragons NRL fixture in Brisbane and a pack of limited edition ‘Local Legend’ ginger beer made by Bundaberg Brewed Drinks.

Premier David Crisafulli said these Local Legends epitomised everything that made Queensland great.

“For years these Queenslanders have been working selflessly to improve the lives of others,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“They don’t ask for anything in return, not recognition or financial gain, but simply so they can better their own communities.

“But today on Queensland Day, we get the chance to celebrate them and acknowledge the work they put in to help make our State the best place to live.”

Longreach Legend Adam Ballard’s Mum, Paula, said that Adam spent all his schooling in the Special Education departments, and is now involved in so much – from being on the radio, at the rugby club, and helping at the racetrack.

“Sometimes Peter and I laugh that we don’t have a name, we are just Adam’s Mum and Dad. His special skill is that he doesn’t view anyone as a stranger; they are all just friends he hasn’t met yet,” Mrs Ballard said.

Ingham teacher Carina Chesson lives opposite the school where the community sheltered during the recent record flood waters, saying she was in the right place to cook, clean, comfort and coordinate rescues.

“It was a traumatic time that affected all, my first granddaughter was born in the flood with my daughter boated to the hospital – so I was just here there and everywhere. I just don’t want to see anyone struggling, which is my motto to my students, and was my motto during this crisis too. There are a million of us legends all helping each other,” Ms Chesson said.

Graduate Medical Scientist Hannah Johnston raised $75,000 for the Gympie Show, at just 21 years of age, with a penchant for both the region and making a difference.

“I’ve had many medical hurdles in my personal life, and this work is my way to give back to the community and healthcare sector behind the scenes. I also want to contribute to Gympie, which is where I have grown up and I am very passionate about the area.”

For First Nations woman and DFV prevention advocate Aunty Jenny Springham, she said she’s working more than ever in the Bundaberg community now she is retired but wouldn’t have it any other way.

“We hear it on the news that another woman has died due to domestic violence, and I believe we need to take ownership and say this is unacceptable. If we don’t work with families and communities, we won’t see it end,” Aunty Jenny said.

Merchant Banker turned veteran lifeline Martin Shaw said running a 24/7 crisis line is not a Monday to Friday job, but helping those in need is invaluable.

“I came across a veteran family in June 2011 when I had done a fundraiser – we gave them $2000 and they gave back $1000 saying they didn’t need the full amount. This moved me, and I realised I needed to dedicate my life to veterans and families,” Mr Shaw said.

For more information on the Queensland Day program visit qld.gov.au/qldday

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Cam Inglis 0412 084 743.