Queensland is turning 166, and we’re celebrating in true maroon style—by recognising the people, places, and flavours that make this state so great.
Premier David Crisafulli has unveiled the winners of the All the Best awards—part of a new tradition that puts the spotlight on Queenslanders’ favourite local experiences, from meat pies to beaches to iconic events.
With more than 61,000 votes cast across 15 delicious, scenic, and quintessentially Queensland categories, it’s clear that locals are passionate about the places they love. Here’s a closer look at this year’s standout winners.
All the Best Winners 2025
- Best Fish and Chips: Bird’s Fish Bar (Bowen)
- Best Meat Pie: Blackbutt Bakery (Blackbutt)
- Best Parmi: Botany (Newstead)
- Best Bahn Mi: My Street Food (Woolloongabba)
- Best Ice Cream: Rad Rolled Ice Cream (Hervey Bay)
- Best Burger: Mr Jeebus (Tingalpa)
- Best Beer: Qld Pale Ale by Archer Brewing Company (Wilston)
- Best Pub: Slipstream Brewery Co (Yeerongpilly)
- Best Café: Dorney’s Cake Shop (Chinchilla)
- Best Coffee: The Coffee Commune (Bowen Hills)
- Best Event: India Fest (Townsville)
- Best Big Thing: Big Mango (Bowen)
- Best Beach: Coolum Beach (Sunshine Coast)
- Best Landmark: The Story Bridge (Brisbane)
- Best Natural Attraction: Great Barrier Reef (Cairns)
In another heartfelt highlight, five incredible Queenslanders have been recognised as Local Legends—individuals who embody the community spirit through acts of kindness, volunteer work, or dedication to local causes. Their stories remind us that Queensland’s strength lies in its people.
The 2025 Queensland Day Local Legends are:
- Adam Ballard, whose nomination described him as “the heart of Longreach” for his volunteer work across many different areas.
- Carina Chesson, a teacher who was “a lifeline for her community” during the Ingham floods in February.
- Hannah Johnston, an agricultural scientist who raised $75,000 for the Gympie District Show as her way to give back.
- Aunty Jenny Springham, described as “a local Bundaberg Legend” who volunteers her time in Domestic and Family Violence prevention.
- Martin Shaw, who is the President of Wounded Heroes Australia and “has worked 7 days/week since 2011” supporting veterans and their families.
More than 1,000 nominations were received from across the State to award community members who go above and beyond everyday service with acts of kindness and volunteering.
Queensland Day festivities are lighting up the state—literally. Iconic landmarks including Brisbane’s Neville Bonner Bridge, the Bundaberg Barrel, and Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville are glowing maroon in honour of the day.
The fun continues with a high-energy showdown at Suncorp Stadium between the Dolphins and the Dragons, capping off a day of community spirit and Queensland pride.
Explore Queensland Day events and stories at qld.gov.au/queenslandday
