In a heartwarming celebration of community spirit, North Sydney Council proudly unveiled the winners of the 2025 North Sydney Community Awards this morning in a ceremony at Sub Base Platypus.
Between them, they support vulnerable community members, lead volunteer groups, champion sustainability, and inspire the next generation.
Mayor Zoë Baker captured the spirit of the occasion, saying:
"The North Sydney Community Awards celebrate the people who make our community stronger, greener and more connected. This year's winners are shining examples of what it means to give back, and their stories are a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have."
The awards presentation was paired with a citizenship ceremony marking Australian Citizenship Day, where thirty new Australians were formally welcomed as citizens, making it a moving double celebration of belonging and community spirit.
Meet our 2025 community champions
Community Builder Award
Joint winners: Jacquelyn Wong and Christopher Milner
Jacquelyn Wong has cultivated more than just plants at The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability. She's grown a vibrant, inclusive community garden that welcomes all.
Christopher Milner's Men's Chat group at Neutral Bay Community Centre has become a vital space for connection, support and camaraderie. His dedication as a volunteer has made a lasting impact for the wellbeing of local men.
Eco Warrior Award
Winner: Carol Skyring
Carol is a sustainability powerhouse. As co-founder of The Sydney Library of Things and founder of the Fix-It Hub, at The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability, she's helped hundreds of locals reduce waste, share resources and embrace eco-living.
Living Legend Award
Joint winners: Alex Wilson and Lynne Cook
Alex Wilson has spent over two decades honouring veterans through advocacy, community service and leading commemorative events as President of the North Sydney RSL Sub Branch.
Lynne Cook has been a tireless guardian of our bushland since 1998, dedicating countless hours to the Balls Head Reserve Bushcare Group, and helping to restore native habitats for current and future generations.
Trailblazer Award
Joint winners: Robert Frazer and Jill Arkell
Robert Frazer's passion for native bees has buzzed through schools, childcare centres and community gardens, educating and inspiring local biodiversity champions.
Jill Arkell is a founding volunteer for Lifeline Connect at Stanton Library, offering in-person crisis support and mentoring volunteers to provide compassion and care to those in need.
Next Generation Award
Joint winners: Mia Sinosic-Cass and Jackson Chan
Mia Sinosic-Cass is a champion of youth empowerment. A recent graduate of North Sydney Girls High School, she founded Rise2Riches (a financial literacy club), led school fundraisers, hosted a community radio show and received the prestigious Hansen Scholarship from the University of Melbourne for her contributions.
Since 2022, Jackson Chan has been the quiet force behind the seamless setup of the Northside Produce Market. Week in, week out, rain, hail or shine – his dedication, reliability and infectious positivity make him a true example of community spirit.
The 2025 North Sydney Community Awards remind us that everyday heroes walk among us, planting seeds of change, building bridges of support, and lighting the way for future generations.
Watch our video to hear their stories in their own words.
