General News
30 January, 2026
Dunolly’s dedication honoured
Around 50 Dunolly locals huddled in the shade at Gordons Gardens to see members of the community receive Australia Day honours.
In distinctive Dunolly style, the family friendly event commenced with an hour of well known Australian hits performed by members of the Goldfields Music Club.
Attendees gathered alongside Dunolly Fire Brigade who provided a barbecue, with a permit.
The event was organised and hosted by Suzy Anderson who commenced the morning with an Acknowledgement of Country, followed by the day’s guest speaker, long time resident and Welcome Record writer Vicky Frizzel, who talked about the many neighbours and community members she had known throughout her life, while all from different backgrounds, now call Australia home.
In an address on the day, Ms Anderson said all of the town’s nominees were worth recognition.
“Every single one of these people, contributed in some way in the community. While each of these people contributed, we can only have a winner in each category,” she said.
Dunolly’s Young Citizen of the year was awarded to Elliot Hallworth, recognised for his vast sporting achievements and selflessness toward his peers.
“Demonstrating outstanding citizenship both in the school and wider community, he consistently shows what it means to belong, putting needs of others before his own. Completing tasks with care, and willingly stepping up when help is needed. Through his action, he truly embodies the school value of community. As well, he is a dedicated sports person, part of a number of Dunolly sporting clubs, and representing Dunolly Primary School in regional swimming sports in Swan Hill,” Ms Anderson said.
Dunolly’s Senior Citizen of the year was awarded to Jamie Polinelli. The Dunolly local was commended for his endless efforts at the Dunolly Post Office throughout 2025, as the community mourned the sudden passing of much loved and long serving postmaster, Michael Rayson.
“During a very difficult time last year when the whole of Dunolly was stunned by a terrible loss, this man stepped in and held it all together, going above and beyond with caring professionalism and great res-ponsibility, often working from dawn until dusk to ensure our post office remained open,” Ms Anderson said.
Upon accepting his reward, Mr Polinelli said even in times of overwhelming grief, it is vital the community stays banded together.
“It’s bittersweet being up here to take this ... it’s tough everyday to front up but we do what we have got to do, and everyone gets on with it,” he said.
“The staff at our post office have been brilliant, without all of their help, Dunolly wouldn’t have a post office. There’s only a certain few who know what we went through to keep the joint going ... I’m very proud to be a Dunolly boy.”