The state government is urging Sunshine Coast residents to nominate local legends for the QLD Day Awards 2026.
It’s the community’s chance to say thank you to volunteers, remarkable locals, young achievers and outstanding organisations by nominating them for the statewide awards.
QLD Day marks the date the state officially separated from New South Wales in 1859 and became an independent self-governing colony.
In addition to the state awards, voting is now open for the All the Best campaign, which celebrates Queensland’s top businesses, locations and experiences. Locals can vote across 15 categories from bakeries to beaches.
Both initiatives form part of QLD Day, June 6, to shine a spotlight on the people, places and businesses that stand for what the Sunshine Coast means.
Premier David Crisafulli said the awards captured the true spirit of what it means to be a Queenslander.
“Queensland is a state of innovators and doers, known for our hard work, kindness and passion, and the QLD Day Awards celebrate everything that makes us great,” he said.
“We’re calling on all Queenslanders to help us recognise our amazing community members and organisations by nominating them as part of this year’s competition.”
Additionally, the Queensland government’s All the Best campaign celebrates small businesses, locations and experiences that define Queensland’s character.
“From your local pizzeria to your favourite beach, your florist or hairdresser who always give you the best service, we want Queenslanders to share what they love most about the Sunshine Coast,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Last year more than 61,000 votes were cast and we know there are so many more hidden gems out there, so now’s the time to nominate and celebrate Queensland Day.”
Member for Nicklin, Marty Hunt said he was incredibly excited to see All the Best return in 2026 because “in Nicklin we’ve got the best of the best”.
“You can vote for the best pub and the best bakery right here in Nicklin – whether it’s a meal at The Namba or Mapleton Tavern, or the famous doughnuts at Kenilworth Country Bakery,” Mr Hunt said.
“And this year, I’ll be backing The Big Pineapple to take the crown as Queensland’s best tourism attraction.”
Coolum Beach was winner of Queensland’s Best Beach 2025.
Life member of Coolum Beach Surf Life Saving Club Shane Urban said the All the Best campaign raised the profile for the region, especially with interstate visitors.
“It was fantastic to be acknowledged as the best beach in Queensland with the spotlight it gives to businesses and locations, and I would highly recommend all Queenslanders getting on board and voting,” Mr Urban said.
“The campaign highlighted a lesser-known beach and now the whole of Australia knows about Coolum Beach.”
Voting is now open, with each entry giving nominators the chance to take home a massive prize pack, valued at more than $1800.
Winners for All the Best will be announced on June 3.
Across Queensland, students can participate in Wear Maroon Day and prizes are also up for grabs in a statewide student art competition.
Nominations for QLD Day Awards 2026 close May 18.
