Chelsea Holland was named Bayside Citizen of the Year 2026 in recognition of her ongoing involvement with The Regals Musical Society.
The announcement was made at an Australia Day citizenship ceremony in Rockdale Town Hall on Australia Day Monday 26 January 2026.
Chelsea Holland has been heavily involved in volunteering in at The Regals Musical Society since moving to Bayside and has dedicated many hours to performing, directing and nurturing local talent.
As the current President of The Regals Musical Chelsea uses her skills and passion to actively contribute to Bayside's vibrant arts scene.
Grace Bula was named Sportsperson of the Year for her sporting achievements. Twelve-year-old Grace Bula has represented her school and local sporting clubs in Oz tag, nippers, rugby league, netball and swimming. She has many sporting achievements including representing at NSW Fijian Juniors Team at NSW Junior Rugby Pasifika Cup.
With her talent and genuine passion for sport Grace she has potential to achieve great things in the future
Leanna Doan was awarded the Young Citizen of the Year for her community work. Leanna is a Year 10 Bayside student. She is dedicated to supporting her community through school involvement and volunteering.
She is a member of the Bayside Youth Advisory Group, and volunteers with Cancer Kids First and Wrap with Love.
Bayside Council would also like to thank Fred Poole, outgoing Citizen of the Year 2024 for his outstanding contribution and ongoing work in our community.
Mayor Edward McDougall said:
"It was an absolute honour to present Chelsea with his award for the incredible work she does as President of The Regals Musical Society.
"The Regals Musical Society, one of Sydney's oldest musical societies, has been nurturing local talent and providing quality musical entertainment in the Rockdale Town Hall for more than 80 years," Mayor McDougall said.
