“I’m a bit overcome by this,” she said while receiving her award. 

The champion behind the city’s animal rescue group has campaigned tirelessly in the community to raise awareness and re-home hundreds of stray pets.

“The community is incredibly generous,” she said tearfully.  

Young Citizen of the Year Justice King said the calibre of award winners already announced was a “real eye opener” for her. 

“I thank my school, my principal and my teacher for nominating me,” Ms King said. 

Veteran jockey Keith Ballard was humble about him being listed a Mount Isa legend at the ceremony. The former leading country jockey in Queensland “felt like a bit of an imposer” when comparing himself to other legend recipients. 

“Racing has been very kind to me,” Mr Ballard said. 

He was well supported by his family members and the community. 

“Thank you Mount Isa, thank you racing, and thank you everybody.” 

Mount Isa Mayor Tony McGrady was quick to assure Mr Ballard that his award was well deserved. 

“You are certainly not an imposter,” Cr McGrady said. 

Mount Isa City Councillor Jean Ferris said there was a great turnout of attendees at the Australia Day breakfast and award ceremony. 

She thanked entertainers for volunteering their time. 

Cr Ferris was glad for the reintroduction to Mount Isa Legend Awards which recognised “the unsung heroes”. 

Eighteen people also took part in an Australian Citizenship ceremony during Australia Day celebrations at the Mount Isa Civic Centre. “Australia beckons people from other lands to come and bring their skills and wisdom and join our original settlers of this ancient land, the Aboriginal people,” Cr McGrady said. 

“From this day, you will walk tall as an Australian, proud of your nation, proud of its people and proud of the country which you now formally call home.” 

Federal member for Kennedy Bob Katter emphasised the number of important people throughout Australian history who were born in other countries.