26 August 2026
From dedicated volunteers and community champions to sporting legends and inspiring young leaders, the Southern Downs is home to an army of people who make a difference every day to our community.
Nominations are now open for Southern Downs Regional Council’s 2027 Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Awards in the following categories:
• Citizen of the Year Award
• Young Citizen of the Year Award
• Sportsperson, Sports Administrator of the Year, Sports Team or Sports Event of the Year Award
• Young Sportsperson, Youth Sports Team or Youth Sports Event of the Year Award
• Cultural Citizen, Cultural Organisation or Culture Event of the Year Award
• Young Cultural Citizen, Youth Cultural Organisation or Youth Culture Event of the Year Award
• Community Event or Organisation of the Year Award
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said the awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the individuals and community events that shape our region.
"The Citizen of the Year awards create an opportunity to celebrate the positive stories across the Southern Downs and celebrate the people who inspire us,” Mayor Hamilton said.
"Communities don't thrive by accident. They are built by people who consistently step forward, contribute their time and create opportunities for others, often without any expectation of recognition.”
Portfolio Councillor for Inspired Communities Cr Carla Pidgeon said the awards highlight the people and events whose contributions leave a lasting legacy across the region.
"Across the Southern Downs, stories of generosity, determination and community leadership play out every day. The Citizen of the Year Awards help bring those stories to light and remind us of everything that is going right across our region,” Cr Pidgeon said.
"Every year we discover individuals and community events whose influence extends far beyond a single project or achievement. Their efforts leave a legacy that strengthens community connections and enriches life across the Southern Downs.”
Driven by a genuine passion for helping others and strengthening community connections, Youth Citizen of the Year recipient James Henry said the greatest reward comes from empowering others to reach their potential, while the recognition of receiving the Council's award has reinforced the value of his contributions and inspired him to continue making a difference in the community.
“For me, volunteering ultimately comes down to serving others, and my personal motivation is one of care and empowering others to be the best they can possibly be.” James said.
“The connections you make with those in your community through volunteering is immensely rewarding, and is my inspiration to continue the work I do.
“Recognition through the Council's award has shown me my contributions are noticed and meaningful, which only motivates me more to continue to make the small impacts I can on those around me.”
Nominations are now open and will close at 4pm on Sunday 29 November 2026. Forms and eligibility guidelines are available online at
https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/our-community/citizen-of-the-year/citizen-of-the-year-2027.
Award recipients will be announced at Council’s official Australia Day celebrations, which will also include a citizenship ceremony to welcome new Australians and celebrate the diversity, inclusivity and community spirit that continue to strengthen the Southern Downs. Event details are yet to be finalised.
Last edited date 26 Aug 2026