Bass Coast Shire Council has opened nominations for the 2026 Bass Coast Community Awards, calling on the community to shine a light on the volunteers, leaders and changemakers who make Bass Coast such a special place to live.
These awards celebrate the individuals and groups who who step up and lend a hand, often behind the scenes, whose quiet commitment and dedication strengthens our community.
Opening during National Volunteer Week (18-24 May), Council is proud to support volunteers across the region, including lighting up Berninneit in Cowes red, providing $100 microgrants to help community groups host Volunteer Week thank‑you events, and supporting local organisations to deliver the Bass Coast Volunteer Expo at Berninneit this week.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said the Community Awards are all about recognising the people who keep communities ticking along.
"Volunteers are the heartbeat of Bass Coast. They give their time because they care - about people, place and community," Cr Tessari said.
"It's the volunteers coaching the kids, checking in on neighbours, protecting our environment, running events, and showing up time and time again because they care. I reckon we all know someone who deserves a proper shout‑out. These awards are our chance to say thanks, loud and proud - and I can't wait to see who our community puts forward this year."
Each year, the Community Awards include a rotating category, and for 2026 this is the Environment and Sustainability Award, recognising outstanding contributions to protecting or enhancing Bass Coast's natural environment, advocating for climate action, and embracing sustainable living.
New this year, we've introduced a permanent Access and Inclusion Award, recognising the vital role that community groups, advocates and individuals play in creating a more inclusive Bass Coast. The award reflects Council's ongoing work through initiatives such as the Access and Inclusion Committee and the Disability Action Plan, and acknowledges that meaningful change happens when community leadership, lived experience and local action come together.
And in an exciting new addition for 2026, award winners will receive professional coaching or facilitation support, tailored to what they want to grow next. Winners can choose from a range of experienced coaches to help build confidence and leadership skills, strengthen wellbeing and resilience, boost professional development or sharpen their direction and impact- the choice is theirs.
Speaking to investment in Bass Coast's volunteers, Cr Tessari said there are already people doing incredible things.
"This is about backing them - giving them the tools, confidence and support to keep going and grow even further. It's an investment in our people and our community."
2026 Bass Coast Community Award categories
- Community Leader Award (all ages)
Recognising outstanding individuals who in their profession or as a volunteer, lead by example, inspire others and demonstrate excellence and commitment in their field.
- Next Generation Leader Award (aged 12-25)
Celebrating a young person or group showing leadership, courage and a outstanding contribution that inspires others.
- Community Group Award
Recognising a Bass Coast community group, sports club, or not-for-profit organisation that provides support, events, fundraising or services for the benefit of the Bass Coast community and its residents.
- Access and Inclusion Award (new standing category)
A group or individual that demonstrates leadership in creating a more inclusive Bass Coast by improving access, removing barriers, encouraging participation, and supporting people of all abilities and backgrounds
- Environment and Sustainability Award (rotating category for 2026)
For individuals or groups making an outstanding contribution towards the protection or enhancement of Bass Coast's natural environment, advocating for climate action and for embracing sustainable living
Nominations are now open and close Sunday 21 June 2026. Anyone can nominate - a friend, volunteer, group or community leader whose contribution deserves recognition.
Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony on Thursday, 16 July 2026 at Berninneit, Cowes.
Nominate now: basscoast.vic.gov.au/communityawards
