THE community champions behind the hugely popular Moree Parkrun were named Volunteer Group of the Year at the Moree Plains Australia Day awards ceremony, held at Jellicoe Park on Monday.
Moree Parkrun is a weekly event organised by a group of dedicated volunteers, who oversee up to 50 participants each Saturday morning.
The group also works with Moree Little Athletics Club, Tourism Moree and 2400 Run Club to help organise the Run the Plains festival, now entering its third year in Moree.
Sue Poole and Jacqui Still received the award on behalf of all Moree Parkrun volunteers, including Betty Downes, Donna Boughton, Lauren Kinsella, Kat Williams, Chris Lehman, Angela Druery, Catherine Moylan, Casey Smith, Karen Bowhay, Ronny Clissold, Sam Cosgrove, Annette Hadley and Tod Davis.
Each week, different volunteers help with marshalling, time-keeping, barcode scanning, finish tokens and tail walking, with more than 50 participants taking part.
“Moree Parkrun is truly honoured to receive this award, and we’re proud of our growing parkrun community,” Sue Poole said
“It’s fantastic to see participants improving every week, whether walking or running, and enjoying social moments together.”
Moree Plains Shire Council general manager, Natalia Cowley, said Moree Parkrun is an example of what a dedicated volunteer group can achieve for its community.
“Participation continues to grow steadily, with an average of 50 runners and walkers attending each week and a record attendance of 97 participants in January, 2026,” Ms Cowley said.
“This growth reflects the inclusive nature of the event and the consistency with which it is delivered.
“A small but committed group of regular volunteers ensures the event runs smoothly every Saturday morning at 7am.
“Rain, heat or early starts, the volunteers reliably give their time and welcome participants, creating a safe and enjoyable experience for all,” she said.
“Visitors attend almost every week and frequently comment on the beautiful course and the exceptionally friendly, welcoming volunteers.
“Moree Parkrun is not just a weekly event, but a community connection point made possible by an outstanding volunteer team truly deserving of Volunteer Group of the Year recognition,” Ms Cowley said.
Launched in September, 2016, Moree parkrun is a free weekly five-kilometre event for participants of all standards. The Parkrun offers an opportunity for the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together on a regular basis and enjoy the outdoors and get physically active.
2026 Moree Plains Shire Australia Day award winners
Citizen of the Year: Todd Mitchell
Young Citizen of the Year: Corey Scriven
Volunteer of the Year: Michael McNamara
Sports Person of the Year: Gabrielle Suckling
Young Sports Person of the Year: Isabella Boland
Community Event of the Year: The Sound of Music
Volunteer Group of the Year: Moree Parkrun
