Nominations are now open for Baw Baw Shire Council's 2026 Australia Day Awards.
The annual awards honour and acknowledge individuals and groups for their outstanding contributions to community life in Baw Baw Shire during the current year and/or over several years.
Residents are invited to submit a nomination in the following categories:
- Citizen of the Year
- Young Citizen of the Year (25 years of age or under)
- Community Organisation of the Year
- Community Event of the Year
Mayor Cr Danny Goss said the awards were a great way to celebrate the unsung heroes who inspire, lead, give back and make our community a great place to live.
"Here in Baw Baw Shire, we're fortunate to have a strong community-focused culture steered by many local volunteers who run workshops, put on community events, fundraisers and many other initiatives for the benefit of others", said Cr Goss.
"These awards are a chance to highlight those who make our community stronger and more connected. If you know an individual or group based locally that deserves a shout out, now is the time to let us know about them and submit a nomination."
Nominations are now open for a four-week period and close at 12.00pm on Friday 24 October 2025.
Nominations should be detailed and include supporting documentation such as letters of recommendation.
The full eligibility criteria and a link to the online nomination form are available now at Australia Day Awards
A printed nomination form can also be completed in person, with copies available at Council's Customer Service Centres in Drouin and Warragul.
Award recipients will be selected by a panel consisting of the Mayor, Councillors and Council officers. All eligible entries will be considered against the assessment criteria and the most outstanding nominee in each category will be selected as the winner.
Nominees will be honoured at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony to be held in January 2026, where the winners will be announced during official celebrations.
