Dougie Graham, the founder of the Santa Claus Pub Crawl and a recent Citizen of the Year recipient, is described by friends and supporters as someone who doesn’t seek accolades but instead dedicates himself to his community.

Mr Graham of Jindabyne has been named the Jindabyne Citizen of the Year at this year’s Australia Day awards ceremony, as the town gathered to celebrate his fundraising efforts.

Mr Graham’s recognition comes as the community just celebrated the fifth annual Santa Claus Pub Crawl in December 2025, a Christmas tradition that has grown into a powerful fundraiser and a focal point for local connection.

The Santa Claus Pub Crawl began as a small gathering and had since blossomed into a community-wide event that brings together men from across the Snowy Mountains.

Mr Graham began the event saying the crawl has evolved from roughly 60 participants in its early years to well over 300 participants in recent seasons, each donning Santa attire as they travel between local pubs on bicycles.

While the event is known for its light-hearted spirit and camaraderie, its impact goes far beyond a night of festive fun.

Since its inception, the Santa Claus Pub Crawl has raised more than $80,000 to assist local families and organisations facing financial hardship, medical needs, and mental health challenges.

In 2024 alone, funds supported individuals and programs such as Indy Mayhew, who is recovering from a brain injury, and the Fly Program, a men’s mental health initiative.

Other grants have benefited residents like Isabella Reece and Connor Rae, as well as additional support through the Fly Program.

The event is more than fundraising; Mr Graham shines a light on its role in strengthening community ties and opening conversations about men’s mental health.

National statistics underscore the importance: in Australia, men die by suicide at 18.3 per 100,000 people, nearly triple the rate for women. In 2024, 2,529 lives were lost to suicide.

The Santa Claus Pub Crawl aims to counter isolation by creating spaces where local men can connect, build trust, and know where to turn if they’re ever struggling.

“Dougie has built a platform that not only raises funds but also fosters real, lasting friendships among participants,” friends of Mr Graham said.

“The Santa Claus Pub Crawl continues to demonstrate how a community can come together to make a tangible difference, changing lives and, in some cases, saving them."

Mr Grahams parents were at the ceremony to congratulate him on his efforts and said they couldn’t be prouder of their sons’ contributions.

“From something that started as a small gathering and excuse to dress up in funny costumes to what it is today is unbelievable and we are very proud of Dougie for all he’s been able to accomplish through fundraising,” Father, Ian Graham said.

As bicycles continue to be collected around the township the fundraising efforts wind down for another year and the men of Jindabyne look forward to participating in the 2026 event in hopes to raise even more funds for those in need.