Dr Skye Charry and Adjunct Associate Professor HY William Chan are the Parkes Shire 2026 Australia Day Ambassadors.
Parkes Shire Council is pleased to announce that two Australia Day Ambassadors will visit the Parkes Shire as part of 2026 Australia Day.
Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Neil Westcott, said Council was delighted to welcome two Australia Day Ambassadors again in 2026.
“We are thrilled to host two Australia Day Ambassadors in 2026, allowing us to extend representation across multiple townships and ensure more of our community can share in these celebrations,” Mayor Westcott said.
The first Australia Day Ambassador visiting the Parkes Shire in 2026 is Dr Skye Charry, a nationally recognised authority on workplace sexual harassment, gender equity and rural culture. Dr Charry will attend the Australia Day ceremony in Parkes.
“Dr Charry’s strong connection to the Central West, combined with her advocacy for fairness, respect and community, makes her a fitting Ambassador for Australia Day,” Mayor Westcott said.
The second Australia Day Ambassador visiting the Parkes Shire in 2026 is Adjunct Associate Professor HY William Chan, an award-winning architect and global sustainability leader shaping the cities and communities of the future. Associate Professor Chan will attend Australia Day ceremonies in Trundle and Bogan Gate.
Mayor Westcott said Associate Professor Chan’s story reflected many of the values celebrated on Australia Day. “William’s personal journey, civic leadership and commitment to sustainability and inclusion make him an inspiring Ambassador,” he said.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend any of the Australia Day events being held across the Parkes Shire.
The 2026 Parkes Shire Australia Day program is available on Council’s website.
Visit: www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Community/Events-and-Festivals/Australia-Day-2026