19 September 2025
The 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards are your chance to recognise local legends who exemplify the Southern Downs spirit and, through their tireless and resilient efforts, strengthen our communities, spark connections and leave lasting legacies.
The next award ceremony will be held in Allora on Australia Day 2026, and nominations are now open for the following categories:
- Senior Citizen of the Year Award
- Young Citizen of the Year Award
- Senior Sportsperson or Sports Administrator of the Year Award
- Young Sportsperson of the Year
- Senior Cultural Citizen of the Year Award
- Young Cultural Citizen of the Year Award
- Community Event of the Year Award
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said the awards salute Southern Downs spirit and provide an important platform to celebrate the individuals and local events that make our region hum with excitement.
“Every nomination tells a story of dedication, resilience and community pride, and these stories deserve to be recognised,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“The Citizen of the Year awards celebrate the incredible and often heroic contributions of selfless and dedicated ambassadors for our community that sometimes go unseen but rarely go unfelt.
“This proud civic event unities our region with one message, and that is a heartfelt thank you to those individuals who freely give their time without expectation of acknowledgment or fanfare.
“If you know someone who goes the extra mile, who lifts others up or who brings people together, please nominate them for the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards.”
Portfolio Councillor for Inspired Communities Cr Morwenna Harslett said the Southern Downs is home to a legion of local legends who find purpose in making our region a better place to live.
“These awards are an opportunity to recognise those who give generously of themselves, who show up, participate, and lend a hand to make Southern Downs a more resilient and vibrant place to live,” Cr Harslett said.
“Australia Day is the perfect moment to applaud their contribution and say thank you.”
Nominations for the awards are now open and close 4pm Sunday 30 November 2025. Forms and guidelines are available online https://bit.ly/SouthernDownsCitizenAwards2026
Council will also welcome new Australians to our country and the region at the Australia Day event, celebrating the region’s cultural diversity and strong sense of community.
Last edited date 19 Sep 2025