Nominations Open for 2026 Southern Grampians Community Recognition Awa
Published on 28 October 2025
Nominations for the 2026 Southern Grampians Shire Community Recognition Awards, presented on Australia Day, open Saturday 1 November.
Each year, the Community Awards shine a spotlight on incredible hardworking people within our community that go above and beyond and make a significant contribution to our region.
These awards showcase those who give their time, energy and care to others; the quiet achievers, the local leaders, and the everyday champions who make a real difference.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said now is the perfect time to start thinking of those in our community who stand out and deserve to be recognised.
“We have so many fantastic people within our community who give so much of themselves for others. Their compassion, kindness and commitment make our region a wonderful place to live.
“Whether it’s a neighbour, friend or family member, we want to thank them. So I really encourage everyone to take the time to nominate someone and help honor their contribution.”
The Southern Grampians Shire 2026 Community Awards includes four categories:
- Young Citizen of the Year - For residents under 25 who have made a significant contribution to the community, either this year or over several years.
- Citizen of the Year - For residents aged 25 and above who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the community in 2025 or over a period of years.
- Community Event of the Year - Recognising an outstanding event held between 30 October 2024, and 30 October 2025, whether it was a single-day, multi-day, or virtual event.
- Community Recognition Award - For individuals or groups who have made a significant contribution to the local community over the past year or beyond.
Award recipients will be celebrated at the Southern Grampians Shire Council official Australia Day ceremony on 26 January 2026, at the Hamilton Botanic Gardens.
Nominations close on Sunday, 30 November 2025 at 5:00pm. Forms can be accessed online via Southern Grampians Shire - Civic Events Southern Grampians Shire Council or collected from Council’s Customer Service Centre at 111 Brown Street, Hamilton. For further information, contact Council at ausday@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au or phone 5573 0444.
“We encourage you to submit your nominations today for those who help make the Southern Grampians a better place to live,” Cr Heslin Concluded.
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