The 2026 Nillumbik Community Awards were held at the Eltham Community and Reception Centre last night, recognising a remarkable group of people and organisations who share common passions: creating opportunities for others and strengthening connections across the Nillumbik community.
From supporting families and preserving local stories to protecting the environment and championing inclusion, this year's recipients demonstrate the many ways individuals can make a lasting difference.
Nillumbik Mayor Cr Naomi Joiner said the awards highlighted the quiet but powerful impact of community-minded people.
"The people we honour tonight don't do what they do for recognition. They do it because they care deeply about others and about the future of this community.
"What I love about this year's recipients is that each of them has created opportunities for people to learn, belong, contribute or connect. Their efforts ripple far beyond a single project or event and help shape the kind of community we all want to be part of.
"They remind us that some of the most important work happens through generosity, persistence and the willingness to bring people together."
Volunteer Award winner Sabi Buehler was recognised for her decades of service to the community through education, storytelling and lifelong learning. As founding president of Nillumbik U3A and the driving force behind the Nillumbik Festival of Stories, she has helped create spaces for people to share experiences and build connections.
The Rotary Club of Diamond Creek received the Community Group Award for more than 30 years of supporting local residents through initiatives including the Diamond Creek Rotary Town Fair, Food Pantry and partnerships with community organisations across the Shire.
Young Citizen Award winner Esme Johnson was recognised for her commitment to environmental conservation and youth leadership, inspiring others through her involvement in local environmental groups, citizen science projects and community initiatives.
Other category winners included Eltham Jazz, Food & Wine Festival Committee (Arts, Culture and Heritage), Jennifer Johnsen (Diversity and Inclusion), Nillumbik Gardens for Wildlife (Environment and Sustainability) and First Nations Friday creators Keira de Hoog and David Kerrigan (Reconciliation).
Council congratulates all nominees, winners and highly commended recipients for the contribution they make to a vibrant, welcoming and connected Nillumbik community.
