Details

Last Updated: Thursday, 23 January 2025 13:35

Presenting the Keys to the City is a time-honoured tradition that harks from medieval days. The act signifies the conferring of trust and honour on the recipient.

It is in keeping with the tradition of centuries past in walled cities where the gates were guarded during the day and locked at night. The ‘special’ key symbolises the freedom and right of the recipient to enter and leave the city at will, as a trusted and esteemed friend of the city’s residents.

While city walls and guards belong in the mists of time, the sentiment of the honour is carried through to modern times.

Recipients

2001 - Mr Haruo and Mrs Mitsuko Ishida: in recognition of their contribution to the Sister City relationship between Toowoomba and Takatsuki.

2015 - Will Power: one of the most outstanding and successful road and street course race winners, winning the 2014 Indy Car Championship and two-time series champion.

2016 - Alyssa Azar:  the then-youngest Australian to climb Mt Everest and all-round adventurer.

2025 - Will Brown:  the fastest and most skilful V8 Supercars driver in the country, claiming the 2024 Repco Supercars championship.  He emulated the 1984 feat of Dick Johnson by featuring on the podium at each race across the Supercars season.