Hilltops 2026 Australia Day Ambassadors Announced

The three ambassadors for Hilltops Australia Day celebrations have been announced.

The Australia Day ambassador for Boorowa will be Mel Thomas.

For Harden, Khushaal Vyas will be the Australia Day ambassador.

Young’s Australia Day ambassador will be Warwick Nowland.

Boorowa’s ambassador Mel Thomas is the founder and CEO of KYUP! Project.

KYUP! is a national self-worth and violence prevention organisaiton and reached more than 40,000 women across Australia. It was launched in 2013 and since then, Mel has partnered with over 40 regional councils, NSW Government, NSW Police and PCYC to deliver programs that build confidence, strengthen boundaries and teach practical safety skills.

Through KYUP!, she empowers the next generation to know their worth and stand strong, because when young people feel valued and confident, everything changes.

“The ultimate Aussie spirit is about looking out for each other, whether in a crisis, through everyday kindness, or by standing by your mates no matter what. It’s also about resilience, humility, fairness, humour, and volunteering- getting through challenges with a fair go and a laugh,” said Mel.

Harden’s ambassador Khushaal Vyas is a respected human rights lawyer, social commentator and not-for-profit leader whose work champions fairness, inclusion and opportunity for young Australians.

He was a finalist in the 2025 Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards.

Khushaal is also a prominent voice in public discourse, contributing commentary on law reform, social justice and diversity to leading publications including the Sydney Morning Herald, ABC, Guardian, Crikey, Pedestrian and Indian Link.

“I remember growing up and seeing Australia take the lead in donating and rebuilding in the aftermath of the 2004 Tsunami. It’s something we see time and again during bushfires, COVID, floods – everything. Where adversity often tears people apart, the heart of Australia is on show during our most trying times. That’s what makes us special”, said Khushaal.

Warwick Nowland, Young’s Australia Day ambassador is a two-time FIM Endurance World Champion and winner of the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans motorcycle race.

He grew up in Quirindi and moved to Sydney as a teenager to complete a motor-mechanic apprenticeship.

A serious road accident changed his trajectory, igniting a passion for competitive racing.

From local Australian championships to the international stage, Warwick competed in British Superbike, AMA events in the USA, and ultimately dominated endurance racing. His crowning achievements include two World Championships (2000 and 2002) and leading the Chinese-backed Zongshen Suzuki Team to its first world title - a milestone that elevated Australia’s profile in global motorsport.

As an Australia Day Ambassador, Warwick brings a message of perseverance, self-belief and community spirit. For him, being Australian means embracing mateship, diversity and the courage to chase big dreams. Looking ahead, Warwick remains passionate about empowering others - on the track, on the court and in life - proving that success is not just about winning, but about inspiring others to reach their potential.

• Topics:

• Awards
• Australia Day
• People