We all know someone who goes the extra mile for their community, and Orange City Council encourages you to nominate them for the 2026 Orange Australia Day Awards.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto said the awards recognised local unsung heroes.
Chris Colvin received the Citizen of the Year Award at the 2025 Australia Day celebrations.
"The Orange Australia Day Awards are presented to local citizens or groups in recognition of outstanding achievement, or to acknowledge the significant contributions they make to the Orange community," Cr Mileto said.
"We all know someone who gives up their time for the good of others, whose commitment and dedication makes a positive difference in their community.
"Whether it's an individual, a business or a community group that has gone above and beyond to benefit others, I urge you to nominate them for an award and show them how much we appreciate their efforts."
The six award categories are:
- The Citizen of the Year Award recognises an individual who has achieved something extraordinary, is an inspirational role model to others or who has made a sustained outstanding contribution to the local community.
- The Young Citizen of the Year Awardrecognises an individual under 25 years of age who has achieved something extraordinary, is an inspirational role model to others or who has made a sustained outstanding contribution to the local community.
- The Community Group of the Year Awardrecognises a group who has made a valuable contribution to the Orange community throughout the year.
- The Community Event of the Year Award recognises an event that has made a valuable contribution to the community. This will be determined both in relation to the quality of the event and the scope of impact on the local government area.
- The Local Legend Award recognises a person who has moulded the Orange local community with outstanding, illustrious or renowned achievement.
- The Business Philanthropy Award recognises a business that seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money or services to the community and good causes.
Nomination forms can be found on Council's website at www.orange.nsw.gov.au/australia-day, at the Civic Centre or the Orange Visitor Information Centre. Nominations close on Friday 5 December 2025.
The winners will be announced at Australia Day celebrations in Cook Park on 26 January 2026.
