Preparations are in full swing for the 2026 Australia Day celebrations in the Hilltops Region. Three ambassadors are scheduled to visit the area, contributing their time to assist residents and visitors in commemorating this annual event.
The National Australia Day Council enlists numerous Australia Day Ambassadors, who willingly volunteer their time to participate in ceremonies nationwide. Their aim is to instill a sense of pride and celebration within local communities during Australia Day.
Hilltops Council is delighted to share that Ms. Mel Thomas is scheduled to visit Boorowa, Mr. Khushaal Vyas will be in Harden, and Mr. Warwick Nowland will be making a visit to Young.
Mel Thomas is a leading advocate for youth empowerment and women’s safety, and the Founder and CEO of KYUP! Project—a national self-worth and violence-prevention organisation that has reached more than 40,000 young people across Australia.
Since launching KYUP! in 2013, Mel has partnered with over 40 regional councils, NSW Government, NSW Police and PCYC to deliver programs that build confidence, strengthen boundaries and teach practical safety skills.
As an Australia Day Ambassador, Mel celebrates the strength, diversity and generosity of Australians while acknowledging the challenges we must overcome—particularly around women’s safety. For her, being Australian means resilience, fairness and showing up for one another. Through her platform, she empowers the next generation to know their worth and stand strong, because when young people feel valued and confident, everything changes.
When asked “What makes you proud to be Australian or what is the ultimate show of ‘Aussie spirit’ ‘Mateship’ for you?” Mel answered: “The ultimate Aussie spirit is about looking out for each other, whether in a crisis, through everyday kindness, or by standing by your mates no matter what. It’s also about resilience, humility, fairness, humour, and volunteering—getting through challenges with a fair go and a laugh.”
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