In 2026, Edward River Council is shining a spotlight on the region's unsung heroes through the Community Volunteer Awards, an initiative celebrating the outstanding individuals who give their time, skills and heart to strengthen the Edward River region.
Nominations are now open for the awards; which recognise volunteers of all ages who demonstrate exceptional commitment, leadership and community spirit, with three age-based categories acknowledging young, adult and senior volunteers for their contributions.
Finalists and winners will be honoured during National Volunteers Week, with the official celebration lunch to be held on Friday 22 May 2026, at the Edward River Library.
Edward River Council Mayor, Cr Ashley Hall, said the Community Volunteer Awards highlight the significant contributions made quietly and consistently across the region.
"Volunteers play a vital role in shaping our community. This program allows us to acknowledge their commitment over the past twelve months and give residents the chance to honour those who devote their efforts to helping others," he said.
The Community Decides
Stage one: Nominations - community members are asked to nominate their local volunteer heroes.
Stage two: Community-led voting - community members can vote for one of the nominees. Information about the nominees will be available on Council's website.
The program puts the community firmly in the driver's seat, with Edward River residents to nominate and cast their vote to decide the winners. After nominations close, community members will be able to vote for their preferred finalists across three categories:
- Young Volunteer of the Year: 24 years and under
Nominees under 18 must provide parental consent
- Adult Volunteer of the Year: 25 to 64 years
- Senior Volunteer of the Year: 65 years and over
To qualify, nominees must have volunteered at least 20 hours between June 2025 and May 2026 with a not‑for‑profit community group.
Key dates
- Nominations open: 1 April - 19 April 2026
- Community voting: 1 May - 15 May 2026 via Council's website or hard-copy forms
- Volunteer Celebration Lunch: 22 May 2026 at the Edward River Library
- Finalist invitations: Selected nominees in each category will be invited to attend
Nomination forms will be available online at https://www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/Community/Community-Volunteer-Awards-2026 and in hard copy at Edward River Council's Customer Service Centre.
Edward River Council encourages the community to get involved - nominate a volunteer who inspires you, and later, cast your vote to recognise their impact.
