Community
21 October, 2025
Record turnout for Mount Isa International Men's Day event
Newly minted president Shane Matthews was thrilled with the community's response.
Mount Isa came together in record numbers on Saturday night to celebrate the achievements and contributions of local men and emerging leaders, as the annual International Men’s Day Awards Dinner drew nearly 400 guests to Buchanan Park.
Hosted by the Mount Isa International Men’s Day committee, the evening recognised outstanding leadership, community spirit, and service – honouring three people whose dedication continues to shape and strengthen the region.
Fifteen-year-old Elias Smith took out the Youth Leader Award, recognised for his remarkable leadership in junior sport.
Since he was just 13, Elias has been coaching local junior soccer teams and running clinics for children as young as three years old.
He also volunteers as a referee – a role that demands patience, maturity and confidence well beyond his years.
“Elias is an inspiring role model,” said Mount Isa IMD president Shane Matthews.
“His passion and dedication to helping younger players really embody what these awards are about – lifting each other up and giving back to the community.”
The Local Hero Award went to John Davis, described by Mr Matthews as “the very definition of a local hero".
Davis, who serves as president of the Mount Isa Apex Club, has become a familiar face at almost every community event in town – from large-scale celebrations like Rock Pop Mime to smaller charity functions and working bees.
“John is the guy who’s always there, quietly doing the work that keeps things running,” Mr Matthews said.
“He’s reliable, humble, and always the first to put his hand up when the community needs support.”
The night’s top honour, the Man of Achievement Award, was presented to Tee Malama for his extraordinary commitment to local youth.
Through his leadership of the Friday Night Youth Outreach program – which draws more than 150 young people every week – Malama has created a safe, positive space for connection and growth.
He also leads the Youth Connect program through the COC Church and runs men’s groups that offer mentorship and support for those in need.
“Tee is a pillar of strength in this community,” Mr Matthews said.
“He gives his time, his energy, and his heart to make sure every young person feels seen and supported. His impact is immeasurable – he’s changing lives every single day.”
The president said the awards were not only about celebrating men, but also about recognising the people and partnerships that make Mount Isa a stronger and more compassionate place to live.
“It was an absolutely incredible night,” he said.
“The atmosphere was electric; the nominees, the sponsors, the community support, the funds raised. Everything came together in a way that showed just how powerful our community can be when we unite with purpose.”
Mr Matthews paid tribute to the local businesses and sponsors who helped make the night possible, especially amid challenging economic conditions.
“The generosity we’ve seen this year is both humbling and inspiring,” Matthews said.
“It’s proof that Mount Isa still has that fighting spirit. People here care about one another and are willing to lend a hand.”
The event capped off what the president described as years of steady growth and hard work by volunteers and past organisers, laying the foundation for what has become one of Mount Isa’s most uplifting annual celebrations.
“This success didn’t happen overnight,” he said.
“It’s the result of dedication, teamwork, and a shared belief in the importance of honouring the good men and boys in our lives.”
Plans are already underway for next year’s International Men’s Day celebrations, with Mr Matthews promising to make it “even bigger and better.”
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Mount Isa,” he said.
“Together we’re building something that creates real impact and leaves a lasting legacy.”