Cook Shire Council is proud to announce Professor Peter Timms as the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador, as the community comes together to celebrate the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony on Monday 26 January 2026 in Cooktown.
Professor Timms is a nationally and internationally respected microbiologist whose research is critical to saving Australia’s koala population — an animal loved by Australians and recognised around the world as a national icon. As a global leader in chlamydial disease research and vaccine development, Professor Timms is at the forefront of efforts to protect koalas from disease and extinction, work that has generated pride well beyond the scientific community.
Mayor Robyn Holmes said Professor Timms’ achievements strongly aligned with the values recognised on Australia Day.
“Professor Timms represents the spirit of Australia Day — dedication, curiosity, service and giving back. His work reflects the pride Australians feel in protecting what makes us unique and giving back to the community,”
Beyond his research, Professor Timms is also recognised for mentoring emerging scientists, supporting conservation efforts and contributing to outcomes that benefit communities across Australia.
Record number of nominations received
This year’s Australia Day Awards have attracted a record number of nominations, highlighting the extraordinary contribution of individuals and community groups across Cook Shire. A strong field of nominees has been received across all award categories, recognising service, leadership, volunteering and community spirit.
“The record number of nominations is a powerful reflection of the people who quietly and consistently give their time, energy and care to others,” Mayor Holmes said.
“These awards are about recognising those efforts and saying thank you.”
Citizenship Ceremony to welcome new Australians
As part of the Australia Day celebrations, Cook Shire Council will also host a Citizenship Ceremony, welcoming three new Australian citizens to the Cook Shire community.
“Welcoming new citizens on Australia Day is always very meaningful,” Mayor Holmes said.“It reminds us that Australia is built on shared values, opportunity and belonging — and we are proud to welcome three new Australians to our community.”
Community encouraged to attend
Cook Shire Council invites residents, families and visitors to attend the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony, a free community event celebrating service, achievement and belonging.
Australia Day Awards & Citizenship Ceremony 2026
9am Monday 26 January 2026
Cooktown Shire Hall
Event details available here
“Australia Day is about coming together — celebrating those who serve their community, welcoming new Australians, and reflecting on what unites us,” Mayor Holmes said.
“I encourage everyone to attend and celebrate the people who make Cook Shire such a strong and caring community.”
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Professor Timms represents the spirit of Australia Day — dedication, curiosity, service and giving back. His work reflects the pride Australians feel in protecting what makes us unique and giving back to the community.
Pictured above: Professor Peter Timms, Cook Shire’s 2026 Australia Day Ambassador celebrated for his work that harnesses science to protect one of Australia’s most loved icons, the koala.