Leigh Ramage named Citizen of the Year

Guyra Citizen of the Year Leigh Ramage with fellow nominees David Kanaley, Gladys Wilson, Trevor Tarrant and Ambassador David Bitton

27th Jan 2026

The Guyra Australia Day Awards were held on January 25th, with a strong turnout reflecting the community’s pride and appreciation for local service and achievement.
The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of 2026 Guyra Citizen of the Year, awarded to Leigh Ramage in recognition of more than 60 years of dedicated service to sporting and community organisations across the Guyra district.
In acknowledging the award Leigh said she was overwhelmed by the honour.
“When I look back on over 60 years of service in our community, it gives me time to reflect and brings back lots of memories of very, very good friends I have made over the years in this little town,” she said.
“The support I have received has been outstanding. I cannot believe this has happened.”
Also nominated in this category were Gladys Wilson, Trevor Tarrant and David Kanaley.
Guyra Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Fletcher Richardson, recognising his outstanding achievements and commitment both on and off the sporting field.
Fletcher has proudly represented Guyra and Australia overseas in shooting and has achieved success at local, state, national and international levels in his chosen sport. He is an active member of the Guyra Gun Club and is well known in the community for his willingness to help wherever needed, including volunteering at the Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival.
He was described as an outstanding young man who will help anyone out and who represents the future of the Guyra community.
Armidale Regional Council Mayor Sam Coupland said the Guyra Australia Day Awards were a highlight on the annual calendar.
“The Guyra Australia Day Awards are special and something I truly look forward to,” Mayor Coupland said.
“They are a fitting way to acknowledge those who have done so much and gone above and beyond to make Guyra a wonderful place to live.”
Mayor Coupland also spoke about the importance of Australia Day as a time for pride and reflection.
“We need opportunities to show we are proud of what it means to be Australian. We need to celebrate everything that is good about this country and this region.”
Australia Day Ambassador David Bitton shared a personal reflection on the meaning of the day.
“Australia means different things to different people. For me, it is a day to reflect, to discern and to be thankful,” he said.
“I am French by birth, but Australian by choice.”
Mr Bitton said giving back to the community had always been a core value for him and his family.
He said Australia Day was about shared stories and collective purpose.
“Australia Day is not about one story - it’s about many stories and people, all working together for a shared future. I am deeply grateful for the life I live in this country, a life rich in purpose, community and connection.”
The Guyra Australia Day Awards are organised by a local committee headed by Rita Williams. Mayor Coupland acknowledged their work in ensuring the celebration continues to reflect the true spirit of the Guyra community.

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Leigh Ramage named Citizen of the Year

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