Ashburton Local Legends is a refreshed community recognition program celebrating the everyday people who go above and beyond to support their town.
Formerly known as the Ashburton All Stars, the program has been reimagined to better reflect what really matters here in Ashburton: strong communities, local pride and the people who quietly make a difference every day – what Local Legends are!
Each month, one Local Legend from each town will be recognised for their outstanding contribution to community life, whether through volunteering, mentoring, organising, supporting or simply showing up when it counts. Each legend will also receive a $50 Shop Ashburton voucher, or a local business voucher depending on the town.
Nominations are open all year round, so if you know someone who deserves to be recognised as a Local Legend, we’d love to hear their story. Any age, any good deed – let’s celebrate the legends among us!
June 2026 Local Legends
Onslow | Dave Finnigan
For going above and beyond both in and out of his role. From check-in calls to even putting your washing machine on when you can’t figure it out!
Pannawonica | Ange Fox
For all your hard work behind the scenes to keep our committees, such as the P&C and Swimming Club, running smoothly.
Paraburdoo | Paul Leijser
Celebrating an incredible decade with the Paraburdoo Swim Club. Paul’s dedication on the pool deck, guidance at competitions from Karratha to Exmouth and Carnarvon, and his unwavering support for every swimmer has shaped this club in ways we’ll never forget.
From yelling encouragement and refining strokes to calming nerves and celebrating every PB like it was a world record, Paul has helped create a lifetime of memories for the kids of PASC — with plenty more still to come.
We also can’t forget all the times he’s jumped in and competed for the club, especially those unforgettable swims at the 2019 Pilbara Championships right here in Paraburdoo. Proof he’s not just a coach on the deck, but part of the team in the water too.
He’s seen the kids at their best and their worst — the laughs, the cheers, the tears, and all those long days at competitions. Through it all, Paul has been there. It’s been a blast, and we’re so grateful for every hour “Paully” has poured into this club and every moment he’s shared with our swimmers.
Thanks, Paully — here’s to the next chapter.
Tom Price | Te Wairua Taua
Te has made a significant contribution to the engagement and development of young people in Tom Price, most notably through her recent efforts in planning and delivering the Youthchella event at Garduwarra Mia.
As Te moves on from the Youth Centre to her next adventure, she will be greatly missed. We are incredibly thankful for everything she has done for the young people of our town.
May 2026 Local Legends
Tom Price | SJ Stevens
SJ is actively involved in many committees within Tom Price, frequently holding executive positions. She is one of the key people behind the continued success of women’s softball in the community. Known for her skills in social media and marketing, as well as her tireless volunteer efforts, SJ is a valued and energetic contributor to community life.
Paraburdoo | Darren Pugh
Daz consistently goes above and beyond for the Paraburdoo community and is a true local legend. He is always willing to step up and ensure that the town is supported, particularly through his work at the post office, where he makes sure services continue to run smoothly no matter the circumstances. His friendly and welcoming nature makes a lasting impact on everyone he interacts with. Daz brings a genuine sense of care and positivity to the community, and his presence alone helps make Paraburdoo a better place to live. He is also a great mate to those around him, someone people can trust, rely on, and count on when it matters most.
A recent example of his dedication was over the Easter period. After flying back into town in the afternoon, Daz saw that parcels had built up while he was away. Without hesitation, he took it upon himself to deliver parcels to the community, working late into the evening until 7 pm. He did this purely out of kindness and a commitment to helping others. Daz is a true asset to Paraburdoo. His selflessness, reliability, and community spirit make him incredibly deserving of recognition as a Local Legend.
Onslow | Moses Clement
Moses Clement is nominated in recognition of his strong community-minded approach and ongoing commitment to supporting local community members. Moses generously volunteers his time and effort, contributing in meaningful and practical ways that make a positive difference within the Onslow community. His willingness to step forward, support others, and give back demonstrates outstanding community spirit and reflects the values of collaboration, service, and care for others.
Pannawonica | Jack Van Den Bosch
Jack is a local young person who demonstrates an incredible work ethic and a level of professionalism that deserves recognition. We employ Jack to mow our lawns, and he is consistently diligent and thorough, showing great pride in cleaning up after every job — and his commitment is demonstrated as he often walks across town to complete the job, pushing a trolley with his gear in one hand and pulling his lawnmower along with the other, a task I can only imagine is quite gruelling. What also makes Jack a Local Legend is his character; he is exceptionally well-mannered and respectful in every interaction.
April 2026 Local Legends
Tom Price | Peter Cheeseman
Peter has spent almost every day off since early January at the BMX track making sure it is ready for the coming season. He has spent long days repairing the track from rain damage as well as general repairs to club facilities, and is an incredibly dedicated member of our group.
Paraburdoo | Michelle Loe
Michelle is instrumental in organising activities for young children/families and events for mums. All of these activities/events are what makes me want to stay in town longer, get out of home & meet new people.
Onslow | Zayn McTaggart
In recognition of outstanding contribution and dedication in assisting with the clean‑up efforts following Cyclone Narelle, demonstrating strong teamwork, resilience, and commitment to his community.
Pannawonica | Trevor Sampson
Trevor is a true community champion who consistently goes above and beyond to support local events. Through his work at the tavern, he is reliable, helpful, and always willing to step in when needed. His positive attitude and commitment make a real difference – he’s a genuine town treasure.
March 2026 Local Legends
Dave Panting | Onslow
Dave is one of our local town maintenance officers with the shire. He is wonderful member of our community and always displays a positive attitude. Always smiling and waving. And his contributions to keeping our town maintained are second to none.
Roma Higginson | Paraburdoo
An invaluable member of the PASC Swim Club this season. She is a passionate swim teacher who generously shares her knowledge and skills with our junior learn‑to‑swim groups and squad swimmers. Roma ensures every child progresses at their own pace while keeping lessons fun, engaging, and enjoyable. Her patience, care, and supportive nature shine through in every session. She has a wonderful way with the kids—helping them feel at ease, building their confidence, and creating an environment where they genuinely love to learn. In addition to her teaching, Roma also serves as a lifeguard and volunteers her own time to support the club and its young swimmers. Her dedication and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for everything she contributes to the Paraburdoo Amateur Swimming Club.
Kylie Kite | Tom Price
Kylie is always going the extra mile as the Manager for Tom Price SES
she goes above and beyond consistently even when she isn't well herself or on holidays, she's still available for SES members to look to for support whether it's general admin or during an event she puts in extra hours to ensure our unit runs smoothly and is compliant with statutory regulations
Donna Nikora | Pannawonica:
Donna consistently provides calm, patient and professional service in what can often be a high-pressure environment. She supports community members with efficiency and respect, handling a constant flow of enquiries and challenges with composure and care. In a remote town where the post office is a vital connection point, Donna’s reliability and positive attitude make a genuine difference every day. She is a valued and deserving Local Legend.
February 2026 Local Legends
Mike Chapman | Onslow
I would like to nominate Mike for his exceptional leadership and tireless commitment to Marine Rescue as Commander. He consistently dedicates countless hours to the role and leads by example, always putting the safety of the crew and community first. His professionalism, calm decision-making, and willingness to step in wherever needed inspire confidence and respect across the unit. Through his dedication, integrity, and selfless service, he embodies the values of Marine Rescue and is truly deserving of this nomination.
Natalie Wilison | Paraburdoo
Nat works at One Tree Paraburdoo Child Care Centre, where she consistently goes above and beyond for the children and families in her care. She is incredibly warm, welcoming and genuine, creating loving, wholesome and engaging activities that help children feel safe, supported and valued every day.
Nat’s care doesn’t stop when her shift ends. She often stays back to speak with parents who may have extra questions or need reassurance, always making time to listen and support families when it matters most. Her kindness and dedication make a real difference to parents and children alike. The children absolutely adore Nat. Her calm, caring nature and positive energy help build confidence, trust and joy within the centre. She quietly strengthens our community by showing up every day with compassion, patience and a genuine love for what she does. Nat truly embodies what a Local Legend is – someone who gives their time freely, looks after others and makes our town a better place simply by being who they are.
Amber Gooding | Pannawonica
Constantly going the extra mile for Pannawonica’s shire. The kids are never bored on any major holidays; she went above and beyond this Christmas and family’s received their own Christmas photos and presents.
Aunty Joyce Drummond | Tom Price
For supporting with transport and attendance across School Holiday programs