The winners of the 2026 Shoalhaven Australia Day Awards have been announced at a combined citizenship ceremony in Mollymook today.
Thirty-seven people were nominated for four awards, with winners selected by the Shoalhaven City Australia Day judging panel.
Megan Dover won the Shoalhaven Citizen of the Year award for her tireless work to tackle homelessness, hardship and social disadvantage in the Shoalhaven. As the co-founder of Salt Care, Megan has transformed the charity from a grassroots initiative to a widely respected organisation that provides benevolent relief to the homeless and vulnerable.
Bella Dewsbury-Love was awarded the Shoalhaven Young Citizen of the Year award for her commitment to supporting and uplifting young people. Bella is a Program Leader with Sonder Youth which aims to improve mental health through positive action. Bella also volunteers with the Junior Albatross Musical Theatre Company where she has played a vital role in the success of junior productions.
The Volunteer of the Year award went to Narelle Barry who has been the heart and soul of the Berry Shoalhaven Heads Magpies Rugby League Club for 48 years. Narelle has selflessly served in the club's canteen, welcoming players, volunteers, and supporters with her renowned beef and gravy rolls and even warmer hospitality.
Sophie Phillips was awarded the Sports Achiever of the Year award for her role as the coach and captain of the Bomaderry Football Club. Sophie brings unparalleled energy and passion to every game, inspiring those around her with her commitment to the sport. Sophie received the 2025 Best and Fairest award and has focussed on nurturing the next generation of athletes.
"I congratulate our award winners and nominees for their dedication to serving others and the positive impact they have made in communities across the Shoalhaven," Cr Patricia White said.
"Through their service and leadership, our award recipients and nominees play a vital role in shaping the Shoalhaven into a place we are proud to call home," she said.
"This year's awards are particularly special, with all recipients being women whose leadership and commitment have made an extraordinary impact across our community."
Providing this year's keynote speech was accomplished musician and Emergency Medicine Specialist, Dr David Kirkpatrick - the Shoalhaven's Australia Day Ambassador.
As the son of iconic Australian music legends Slim Dusty and Joy McKean, Dr Kirkpatrick's life is a unique Australian story that bridges two worlds: the high-pressure environment of emergency medicine and the soulful traditions of country music. He is a passionate advocate for regional communities and shared his story of what it is to be Australian.
The event also welcomed 29 conferees and their families, welcoming the city's newest citizens from Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, Britian, Germany, Colombia, Thailand, New Zealand, Philippines and Sweden.
Mayor Patricia White thanked the Ulladulla Milton Lions Club for hosting the Australia Day event at Mollymook Beach Reserve. Hundreds of residents and visitors attended the family-friendly all day event to celebrate community, citizenship and local achievement.
Pictured with Mayor Patricia White and Dr Kirkpatrick are (L-R) Megan Dover, Narelle Barry, Sophie Phillips and Anna Dewsbury-Love accepting on behalf of daughter Bella who is travelling.
