Campaspe Shire Council is encouraging residents to nominate the people and groups who help make their communities stronger, kinder and more connected, with nominations opening Monday, 3 August for the 2027 Citizen of the Year Awards.
Behind every successful community are people who dedicate their time, skills and energy to helping others. The awards recognise those contributions and encourage residents to take a moment to acknowledge someone they admire, appreciate or believe deserves to be recognised for the difference they make.
As one of Council's highest honours, the awards recognise individuals and groups whose commitment, leadership and service help strengthen communities across Campaspe Shire.
Award categories include:
- Campaspe Citizen of the Year
- Campaspe Young Citizen of the Year
- Community Group of the Year
Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell said the awards provide an opportunity to celebrate local people whose efforts often take place behind the scenes.
"We are fortunate to have so many people across Campaspe who are willing to lend a hand and get involved in their communities.
"They volunteer their time, support neighbours, lead local initiatives, preserve our heritage, mentor younger generations and help create the strong sense of community we value so highly.
"The Citizen of the Year Awards give us the chance to recognise those people, share their stories and publicly thank them for the positive impact they have on the lives of others."
Campaspe Shire Council Director Community and Culture, Jo Bradshaw, encouraged residents to start thinking about the remarkable people and groups in their own communities.
"We know there are many deserving nominees right across the Shire, but too often people assume someone else will put their name forward.
"If you know someone who consistently goes above and beyond, now is the time to nominate them. A nomination can be a meaningful way to acknowledge years of dedication and service.
"Whether someone is contributing through sport, culture, the arts, community organisations, environmental initiatives, health services, youth programs or countless other activities, we want to hear their story," Ms Bradshaw said.
The 2026 award recipients reflected the diversity, passion and commitment found throughout Campaspe Shire, with joint Citizen of the Year winners Bruce Hamblin and Jim Webb of Toolleen recognised for their longstanding contributions to preserving local history, strengthening community connections and supporting residents over many years. Matilda Sowter of Kyabram was named Young Citizen of the Year for her leadership, volunteer service and advocacy, while headspace Echuca Youth Reference Group received Community Group of the Year for empowering young people and improving youth wellbeing across the region.
Nominees must reside within Campaspe Shire. Online nominations are encouraged, but hard copy forms are also available at Council's Customer Service Centres.
For selection criteria and to submit a nomination, visit www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/nowopen.
Submissions close on Sunday 1 November 2026.
For assistance with your nomination, contact Council's Festival & Events Team on 1300 666 535.
