Sunshine Coast Sports, an independent regional body dedicated to championing and supporting community sports across the Sunshine Coast and Noosa, has announced the finalists for the 54th Annual Sports Awards for 2024.
Now in its 56th year, this prestigious event has been celebrating the region’s outstanding sporting achievements since 1968, recognising the dedication and success of athletes, coaches, teams, volunteers, and sporting organisations.
The awards have played a crucial role in fostering local talent and honouring those who contribute to the growth of sports in the community.
The winners will be revealed at the Annual Sports Awards Ceremony this Wednesday 12 March, at Altitude Nine, Sunshine Coast City Hall, Maroochydore CBD.
The evening will feature a number of special guests, including Olympic gold medallist Duncan Armstrong OLY OAM, who will present the Sports Star of the Year award. Each category winner will receive $250 and a trophy. The Sports Start of the Year will receive another trophy and additional $250.
For over five decades, the Sunshine Coast Sports Awards have recognised the region’s most exceptional sporting talent, adding five more remarkable athletes to its historic roll of honour this year.
Past winners include sporting icons such as Pat Rafter, Lisa Curry-Kenny, Grant Kenny, Ian Baker-Finch, and Tate McDermott – all of whom began their journey in grassroots sports before achieving national and international success.
Sunshine Coast Sports Board Member Charlie Hemming said, “This awards night is more than just a celebration of sporting excellence – it is a testament to the strength, passion, and dedication of our local sporting community.”
“For 56 years, Sunshine Coast Sports has proudly honoured the individuals and teams who inspire us with their commitment to sport, from grassroots to elite levels.
“We are excited to recognise the 2024 finalists and continue our mission of supporting local athletes.”
ANNUAL SPORTS AWARD FINALISTS FOR 2024:
– Athlete of the Year – Open 2024 Finalists:
Ally Bull
Isabella Caldow
Lachie Landsdown
Peyton Craig
Ryan Tyack
– Athlete of the Year – Next Gen 2024 Finalists:
Addision Houslip
April Kolinisau
Byron Dieckmann
Chelsea Juan
Chloe Saliba
Grace Brimelow
Sophia Dickson
– Athlete of the Year – First Nations 2024 Finalists:
Brianna Martyn
Rhett Baker
– Athlete of the Year – Disability 2024 Finalists:
Ben Hance
Callum Simpson
– Team of the Year 2024 Finalists:
Flinders Phoenix Swimming
North Shore Board Riders
Sunshine Coast Grammar Pool Lifesaving
– Coach of the Year 2024 Finalists:
Brendan Mallyon
Christopher Wright
Jeannie Baxter-Reid
Lynette Rankin-Tyack
Toby Coote
– Official of the Year 2024 Finalists:
Bridie Kean
Lynette Rankin-Tyack
– Volunteer of the Year 2024 Finalists:
Kelly-Ann O’Neill
Lynette Rankin-Tyack
Mick Vaisnys, Don Smit, Darryl Cook
Sharon Hill
Tracey Budenhagen
– Event of the Year 2024 Finalists:
Cali Unite
Suncoast Spinners Wheel Chair Basketball Tournament
– Inclusivity Award 2024 Finalists:
Eumundi Magpies
Sunshine Coast Archery Club
Sunshine Coast Pickleball
Join in celebrate local sporting excellence:
Date: Wednesday, 12 March 2025
Time: 5:15 PM – 8:00 PM (Ceremony begins at 6:00 PM)
Venue: Altitude Nine, Sunshine Coast City Hall, Rooftop Event Space
Tickets: Adults $35, Children $20 (includes grazing plates; cash bar available)
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Tickets are available now, and the community is encouraged to join in celebrating the achievements of our local athletes, volunteers, and sports leaders.
