KNOW SOMEONE MAKING A DIFFERENCE? NOMINATE THEM NOW! 

Shellharbour City Council is calling on the community to help shine a light on the people and groups who make our city a better place to live, work, and thrive.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Shellharbour Community and Australia Day Awards, the city’s highest civic honours. These awards celebrate compassion, generosity, leadership, and outstanding service across a wide range of categories.

Caption: Winners of the Citizen of the Year Mohit Tolani (right) and Young Citizen of the Tori Henderson at last year’s Shellharbour Community and Australia Day Awards. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council

Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer encouraged community members to take part in the nomination process.

“Every year, we hear incredible stories of dedication and generosity from people across our city. These awards are a chance to recognise those who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others,” Mayor Homer said.

Last year’s Young Citizen of the Year winner Tori Henderson called on people to nominate for the 2026 awards.

“We all do good things for others because we feel it’s the right thing to do not because we want an achievement or an accolade. I’m so thrilled to see who follows and what they manage to do with their time as Young Citizen of the Year,” she said.

Individuals, community groups, and local businesses with a strong connection to Shellharbour are eligible. Nominees must have made a significant positive impact, either through years of service or a single remarkable achievement.

When nominating, tell us their story, describe what they did, when they did it, and the difference it made. Include evidence where possible, such as testimonials, photos, media coverage or results, and provide a referee who can verify the contribution. Some terms and conditions apply.

The 2026 award categories include:
• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year (under 25)
• Athlete of the Year
• Young Athlete of the Year
• Service to Sports
• Community Group of the Year
• Community Capacity Builder
• Volunteer of the Year
• Outstanding Contribution to the Arts
• Outstanding Contribution to Diversity & Inclusion

Nominations close at 11:59pm on Sunday, 30 November 2025. To nominate someone who inspires you, visit Council’s website.

KEY MESSAGES:
• Nominations are now open for Shellharbour’s 2026 Community and Australia Day Awards.
• Celebrate local excellence across categories like volunteering, sports, arts, and inclusion.
• Submit your nomination by 30 November 2025 via Council’s website.