Published on Tuesday, 27 January 2026 at 1:50:16 PM
Katherine Town Council marked Australia Day 2026 with a full day of community celebrations, recognising new citizens, its citizens of the year and bringing residents together to celebrate Katherine’s centenary year.
The centrepiece of the day was the Australia Day Awards ceremony, where Council recognised individuals and events that have made a significant contribution to the Katherine community.
The 2026 Australia Day Award recipients are:
- Citizen of the Year – Simmone Croft
- Young Citizen of the Year – Kate McTaggart
- Event of the Year – KCPA Christmas Lights
Mayor Joanna Holden congratulated the award recipients and acknowledged all nominees who were recognised at a nominee dinner last Friday night.
“These awards celebrate people and events that bring our community together and support others, often behind the scenes,” Mayor Holden said.
The Australia Day celebrations also included a citizenship ceremony, during which 16 new Australian citizens were welcomed into the Katherine community, including two young families. Around 150 people attended the ceremony and awards presentation.
Earlier in the day, more than a dozen families took part in the Australia Day Scavenger Hunt, designed to reveal Katherine’s past in a nod to its centenary year.
The afternoon celebrations kicked off on a free community pool party, attracting more than 150 people. Attendees enjoyed a free lunch featuring sausages, sandwiches, wraps, fresh fruit, pastries, and a special Centenary cake, while families cooled off and relaxed.
Katherine Town Council thanks all volunteers and community members who helped make Australia Day 2026 a positive and inclusive celebration for the whole community.
Citizen of the Year Winners profiles
Citizen of the Year: Simmone Croft
Simmone Croft has shown a lifelong commitment to recording and preserving Katherine and Northern Territory history for future generations. Through her extensive involvement with the Katherine Museum, she has helped strengthen it as a valued community hub.
Many of Simone’s achievements were voluntary, with a strong focus on building community goodwill and attracting volunteers. Her work has helped ensure Katherine’s history is preserved and shared.
Young Citizen of the Year: Kate McTaggart
Kate was nominated for her dedication to local sport and community involvement. After sustaining a knee injury, she continued to support rugby league through volunteering and refereeing, demonstrating resilience and commitment. Kate was recognised as the 2024 NT Junior Rugby League Referee of the Year and continues to give back through her involvement in events such as the Katherine Show.
Event of the Year: Katherine Community Projects Associations’ Christmas Lights
This event was nominated for transforming Lindsay Street into a festive, family-friendly celebration centred on community spirit. With free food, gifts for children, train rides and entertainment, the event creates an inclusive and joyful space that reflects the generosity and goodwill of the Katherine community.
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