Nine of Baw Baw Shire's most outstanding individuals and groups have been recognised for their community contributions, taking out top honours in last night's Australia Day Awards ceremony.
Hosted by Baw Baw Shire Mayor Cr Kate Wilson at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, the awards ceremony was a joyous occasion where Councillors and community united to acknowledge and celebrate those who go above and beyond in service to others.
Mayor Cr Kate Wilson said each recipient represented the very best of who we are.
"We are so lucky to live in a community filled with many wonderful people and groups who gladly volunteer their time, skills and energy to make our Shire a better place for everyone", the Mayor said.
"Each year we receive so many inspiring nominations and the process to choose each winner is always tough. These awards remind us of how fortunate we are to have many civic-minded and dedicated community leaders always striving to make our community a more inclusive, connected and vibrant place.
"Congratulations and thank you to all of the deserving award and medallion recipients for 2026."
The category award recipients for 2026 are detailed below:
Citizen of the Year - Ken Barker
A dedicated family man, volunteer, Men's Shed member and overall community champion – Ken generously and selflessly gives his time and skills for the benefit of the Neerim South community.
In recent years, Ken has become a regular fixture around Neerim South Primary School, contributing endless hours, resources and handy skills for the benefit of students and the school. With patience and understanding, Ken teaches practical skills such as woodwork, building, mechanics, plumbing and even chess to students. Together they work to apply these skills building bird boxes, chicken coops, art caddies and countless other improvements to the school grounds and gardens. Students look forward to their days with Ken and appreciate his kindness, patience and calming presence. Ken is deeply committed to providing young people with positive role models and meaningful connections.
Ken also volunteers his time and skills at Neerim South Men's Shed and Friends of Mt Worth State Park where he participates in monthly working bees to clear paths and ensure the area is safe and accessible for visitors.
Outside of his handyman skills, Ken and his wife have fostered numerous children over the years in addition to raising their own family. He is an advocate for breaking the cycle of family violence and demonstrates compassion, dedication, and integrity in all he does. The community thanks him for his immeasurable contributions and the positive impact he has every day on those around him.
Young Citizen of the Year - Charlotte Dawson
At 18 years of age, Charlotte shows outstanding leadership and commitment through her extensive involvement in youth initiatives across Baw Baw Shire.
She is a longstanding member of Youth Advocates for Baw Baw (YABBies) and an ambassador for the Live4Life program. Through these programs, Charlotte's passion for youth mental health has flourished and she continues to be a positive voice for her peers in local decision-making, community projects and events.
Last year, Charlotte was one of just five young people selected for the Young Producers program, working with industry mentors to co-design and deliver the Expressions Festival – an annual showcase of Gippsland's young creatives. She also represented Baw Baw Shire at The Push's Amplify Summit in Melbourne attended by Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman to discuss what is important to Victoria's young people.
Through these roles, Charlotte has fostered inclusion, creativity and wellbeing in the community, all while balancing the demands of completing Year 12. Her ability to lead, collaborate, and inspire others makes her a vital and valuable young voice in Baw Baw Shire.
Community Event of the Year - Hallora Marathon
The Hallora Marathon Festival is an annual run, walk and ride event established in 2015 by Daniel Pratt to promote physical activity, community connection and raise vital funds for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, a cause close to his heart. Inspired by personal experiences with cancer, the event brings people of all ages and abilities together, encourages active living and fosters community spirit.
Growing each year, it has become a highly anticipated event in the Baw Baw Shire calendar where participants can sign up for a 42km, 24km, 16km, 8km and 5km course. What started with four participants has grown to over 900 participants over a decade. Last year in December, the team celebrated the 10th anniversary of the event and recorded the highest participation, attendance and fundraising in the event's history – raising over $60,000 in vital funds.
Each year countless volunteer hours are dedicated to event planning, organising registrations, rallying sponsors, coordinating raffles and auctions, promotion and on-the-day marshalling – a tireless effort all in the name of community spirit, participation and fundraising. The achievements of this event are a credit to Daniel, his wife Laura and their wonderful group of volunteers who work hard to deliver this powerhouse event.
Recognition of Outstanding Community Organisation - Warragul Municipal Band
Founded in 1885, the Warragul Municipal Band celebrated its 140th anniversary in 2025 – a monumental achievement of history, heritage, and legacy. Over 14 decades, the band has continued its mission to promote music through education, development, and performance opportunities. At the heart of the band lie its four main pillars – community, legacy, education and family. Last year, band members spent over 600 volunteer hours running weekly programs for participants, and over 120 volunteer hours running free workshops for the Baw Baw Shire community.
This past October, the band held an exhibition showcasing its history since 1885, featuring historic Warragul images, a tribute to Bruce Armstrong, recognition of ANZAC and 52nd Battalion connections, and displays of trophies, uniforms, and photographs. In November, the 140th Anniversary Celebrations Concert was a standout event featuring memorable performances from the senior and training bands, a world premiere by composer Nat Pollard, a dazzling piano performance by Darryl Coote, and a festive finale with fanfare and cake cutting.
Current Musical Director Geoff Coote, Band President Alice Weatherall, the Band Committee and all Members of the Warragul Municipal Band family work hard to bring the gift of song and music to all. Through its 140-year history, the band has remained an integral part of the Warragul and wider West Gippsland communities and will continue for many decades to come.
Medallion - Karen Romano
For the past 10 years, Karen led the Warragul and District Netball Association as President, showing exemplary leadership, commitment and dedication to the role and all involved. Often going above and beyond what is expected as a volunteer, Karen devotes countless hours each week to ensure things run smoothly from managing competitions, supporting coaches and creating a welcoming environment to all players.
Karen's selfless service and genuine care of community have made a positive and lasting impact on local families and the development of grassroots netball Warragul and surrounds.
Medallion - Scott Smith
Known affectionately as Scotty, he is a valued member of the local community who dedicates his time and energy to helping others and making a positive impact. Despite living with challenges, his passion for community shines through in his daily efforts to keep Warragul clean and welcoming.
For over 23 years he has proudly served as a Warragul CFA member where his commitment and team spirit are deeply appreciated. Scotty is also involved in the local soccer club helping with various tasks around the grounds. Scotty regularly assists local shops by tidying up, offering a helping hand, and brightening everyone's day with his friendly attitude. His dedication, reliability, and generous nature inspire those around him and demonstrates the importance in building strong, connected communities. Scotty's efforts truly make Warragul a better place for all.
Medallion - Lincoln Judd
Lincoln Judd is a highly respected and long-standing contributor to the Neerim South community. He founded and managed the Neerim Star newsletter in 2016, which has grown into an essential monthly publication connecting over 1,000 locals.
As secretary of the Neerim South Public Hall Reserve, he has played a key role in transforming the Algie Hall into a well-equipped and widely used community venue, supporting events, schools and local groups. Lincoln continues to work with Council and emergency services to develop the hall as an emergency and evacuation centre.
He is widely valued as a connector and source of knowledge within the community. He has made a lasting, positive impact on community life in the Neerim district, generously volunteering his time and skills to help build a thriving, connected township its residents are proud of.
Medallion - Louise Young
Louise Young has dedicated thousands of volunteer hours to the Ellinbank community, particularly through the Ellinbank Badminton Club, where she is a life member, committee member, coach, and senior player. Alongside her husband Ken, she has led the extensive renovation of the Ellinbank Badminton Stadium.
Louise is also active on the Public Hall Committee, runs the Ellinbank Market, delivers after-school badminton programs for local schools, and plays a key role in the Mid Gippsland Junior Badminton Association by organising tournaments and attracting state-level competitions to the region.
Widely regarded as selfless and tireless, she continues to seek grants and opportunities to strengthen badminton and community facilities into the future.
Medallion - Tyisha Baxter-Farrant
Tyisha is a passionate advocate for local Aboriginal young people and supports at-risk Aboriginal young people across Baw Baw and Latrobe areas.
She plays a key role in the Deadly Mob (Baw Baw) and Kickback (Latrobe) programs, planning and delivering weekly activities that strengthen cultural connection, school engagement, healthy lifestyles, leadership and positive relationships with community and police. Tyisha also provides holistic support through care team meetings and individual assistance.
A respected and compassionate role model, Tyisha is widely admired for her integrity, empathy and strong relationships with young people. Her dedication and responsiveness to community needs are exemplified by initiatives such as organising a large-scale trip for 21 Aboriginal youth to the AFL Dreamtime game, providing meaningful cultural and community experiences.
Community members are encouraged to join in any of the 16 local celebrations taking place on Monday 26 January in townships across Baw Baw Shire.
Additionally, 60 people from 17 countries will become new Australians at a Citizenship Ceremony to take place in Warragul on Australia Day.
For more community event details go to Australia Day Community Events.
