The region’s parks and foreshores – along with the free Council programs held within them – have been recognised as the best in the state at the 2026 Outdoors Queensland Awards.
Bundaberg Regional Council was recognised as one of Queensland’s leaders in outdoor recreation, taking out the Government Achievement Award at the award ceremony held last week.
Presented as part of the awards’ 25th anniversary celebrations, the honour recognises Council’s commitment to encouraging outdoor participation through community programs, partnerships and investment in recreation infrastructure.
Bundaberg Regional Council was selected ahead of finalists City of Moreton Bay and Brisbane City Council.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the award recognised years of investment that had helped build a strong outdoor recreation culture across the Bundaberg Region.
“From Be Active Be Alive (BABA) and Building Our Outdoor Movement (BOOM) programs to pathways, parks and foreshore precincts, we’ve created more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to get outdoors and enjoy everything our region has to offer,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“This award belongs to our community, local recreation providers, community groups and Council staff who help make outdoor recreation part of everyday life across our region.
“To be recognised on the state stage is a proud achievement for our entire community.”
Over the past year, Council’s Be Active Be Alive program connected more than 3,500 residents with free and low-cost fitness and recreation opportunities delivered by 61 local providers across 278 classes.
The Bundaberg Region’s Walkabout Training, which was engaged by Council to run free canoeing sessions through the BOOM and BABA programs, also took out a state award on the night with founder Mark Cartner winning the AQIA Workforce Development Award.
“Congratulations to Mark Cartner and Walkabout Training on this well-deserved award win,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“Mark brings a genuine passion for helping people try something new, build confidence and discover the benefits of spending time outdoors.
“We’re proud to work alongside providers like Mark who make a real difference in our community.”
Outdoors Queensland Executive Officer Dom Courtney said the 25th anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the sector’s remarkable growth while recognising the people and organisations shaping its future.
“For 25 years, the Outdoors Queensland Awards have celebrated the individuals, clubs, businesses and community organisations that inspire Queenslanders to get outdoors, connect with nature and lead healthier, more active lives,” Dom said.
“This year’s awards highlight the extraordinary contribution being made across the state, particularly in regional and remote communities where outdoor activities play such an important role in community wellbeing, tourism, environmental stewardship and local economies.”
About the Outdoors Queensland Awards
The Outdoors Queensland Awards recognise and reward excellence in the outdoors community. The Awards celebrate individuals, organisations, programs, events and activities that have been successful in significantly improving outcomes for participants, clients and communities.
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