Tweed honours citizens and welcomes the new

TWEED Shire celebrated community contributions at its Australia Day ceremony on Friday, January 24, naming retired scientist Mic Julien from Tyalgum as Tweed Citizen of the Year.

Julien, a dedicated volunteer, has led numerous projects to enhance Tyalgum’s safety, recreation, and resilience. He manages local crown lands, secures grants for playgrounds, skateparks, and campgrounds, and volunteers with the Rural Fire Service and the Tyalgum Scratchers gardening group.

Mayor Chris Cherry praised Julien’s commitment to strengthening the community.

“As a member of the Community Resilience Team, he secured a grant to establish a radio repeater station, improving disaster response communication between Tyalgum and surrounding towns,” Cr Cherry said.

“His work enhancing emergency preparedness has strengthened our community’s ability to face future challenges, affirming his value in both the Tyalgum and broader Tweed community.”

The Senior Ambassador of the Year award went to musician and karate teacher Phil Eizenberg for his efforts in promoting mental health and physical activity.

The U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball team, winners of the Northeastern Junior League, received the Sporting Achievement of the Year – Group award, while surfer Dany Henry and swimmer Isabella Millar shared the individual category.

The Tyalgum Scratchers were named Volunteer of the Year – Group, with Gary Setchell recognised as Volunteer of the Year – Individual for 14 years of service to disadvantaged Murwillumbah residents.

Tweed Coast Band was awarded for Arts and Culture, while the Murwillumbah Youth Action Group earned Community Event of the Year for their Murbah Youth Fest.

Casuarina’s Jeff Dunne, 16, the first Australian male to represent Olympic breakdancing, was named Young Achiever in Community Service.

The ceremony concluded with 32 residents from 10 countries becoming Australian citizens.