Australia Day Ambassador 2026

Published on 12 January 2026

Australia Day Ambassador brings endurance, generosity and a passion for literacy to Cowra

Cowra Council is pleased to announce that Gary “Smokey” Dawson OAM will join the community as the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador, bringing an extraordinary record of athletic achievement and charitable dedication.

A celebrated sportsman and philanthropist, Gary has raised more than $30 million for charities across Australia through innovative fundraising events, including golf marathons and endurance challenges. He has completed over 11,000 holes of golf across 50 marathon events, travelling thousands of kilometres to support causes such as Wheelchair Sports NSW ACT, Children’s Cancer Institute, Bear Cottage, Heal for Life, Communities Assist, Special Olympics and the Books in Homes literacy program.

Gary’s commitment to community has earned him the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) and the Advance Australia Award for his contribution to sport and charitable work. He also co-founded the Charity Challenge Golf Tournament with PGA professional Matthew Laverty, a series that continues to raise millions for vital programs nationwide.

“Being an Australia Day Ambassador is an opportunity to celebrate generosity, unity and mateship—values that reflect the best of the Australian spirit,” Gary said.

Beyond golf, Gary is an accomplished endurance athlete in swimming, running and triathlon, holding more than 70 swimming records dating back to the 1960s.

As a trustee for Books in Homes, Gary regularly visits schools to inspire children to discover the joy of reading, sharing his simple message: “It’s cool to read.” He also serves as an ambassador for Wheelchair Sports NSW and Leukodystrophy Australia, supporting initiatives that make a difference in remote and Indigenous communities.

Gary will attend Cowra’s Australia Day Service, community activities and Australia Day celebrations on Monday 26 January.

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Caption (Mr Gary Dawson OAM): Australia Day Ambassador Gary “Smokey” Dawson OAM will join Cowra’s celebrations on 26 January.