Council welcomes the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador Paula Pool

Published on 23 January 2026

Charters Towers Regional Council is delighted to announce Paula Pool as the Australia Day Ambassador for the 2026 celebrations.

Paula Pool is the director and co-founder of Fuel for Schools, a transformative initiative designed to address food insecurity among school children and to encourage them to attend school.

The “Fuelling the Future” program now feeds nearly 7,000 school children every week, ensuring they have the nourishment needed to thrive.

Mayor Liz Schmidt expressed her enthusiasm about hosting such an accomplished guest.

“We are honoured to welcome Paula Pool to Charters Towers as our 2026 Australia Day Ambassador.

“Paula’s dedication to community welfare is truly inspiring and will resonate deeply with our residents and school communities”, said Mayor Schmidt.

Beyond providing meals, Fuel for Schools also supplies essential educational resources, creating an environment where children can focus on learning without the distraction of hunger.

Paula Pool has become a driving force for change, ensuring that every child has a fair chance at a brighter future.

Paula will present the awards at the 2026 Australia Day Awards ceremony, taking place at the Arthur Titley Centre on Monday, 26 January 2026, at 9am.

Residents are encouraged to join in celebrating local achievements and reflecting on the importance of this national day.

The Australia Day Ambassador Program is one of the longest-running and most successful national initiatives, sending high-achieving Australians to over 300 community celebrations across the country.

These ambassadors, including past Australian of the Year recipients, sportspeople, scientists, business leaders, actors, and community workers, embody the spirit of service and contribution.

“Australia Day is a time for all Australians to come together to reflect, respect, and celebrate”.

“It’s an opportunity to consider our shared past, present, and future, to listen to, and respect each other’s stories, and to honour the diverse contributions that make up the story of Australia”, continued Mayor Schmidt.

Charters Towers Regional Council encourages residents to take part in the Australia Day celebrations.

For more information about Australia Day events, visit www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/Australia-Day-Celebrations.