Do you know someone amazing in your local community?
Council is seeking nominations for its Australia Day 2026 Civic Awards, looking for locals who go above and beyond to make the Yarra Ranges a better place to live, work and play.
Anyone can nominate an outstanding community member for an award, with categories including:
Citizen of the Year
Young Citizen of the Year (under the age of 26)
Environmental Achiever of the Year
Young Environmental Achiever of the Year (under 26)
Community Leadership (Ian De La Rue Award)
Community Group of the Year
Mayor's Lifetime Achievement Award
To be eligible for an award, the nominee should be an Australian citizen and a resident of Australia and must have made an outstanding contribution to the region that has improved the wellbeing of the community.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Jim Child, said the awards were a chance to thank people who consistently helped others.
"We have so many marvelous community members here in the Yarra Ranges, who volunteer their time and expertise, and harness their passions for the betterment of us all," he said.
"The simple fact is that our community keeps on turning because of volunteers, because of people putting their hand up, or wanting to make the world a better place.
"These awards are a chance to stop and recognise these people, to give them a very public thank you and an award in front of their peers, their family and their friends.
"Nominating only takes a few minutes and can mean the world to people who receive the awards."
The 2026 Australia Day Yarra Ranges Civic Awards will be handed out on Australia Day, 26 January, 2026, at Council's Citizenship Ceremony at the Civic Centre.
Nominations are now open and will close on 29 November.
Visit the Council website to find out more and nominate.
