Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for the Edward River community?
A dedicated volunteer, a talented young person making a difference, or a local group creating positive change?
Edward River Council is inviting residents to recognise the people, groups and events that make our community special, with nominations now officially open for the 2027 Australia Day Awards.
The annual Awards celebrate the individuals and organisations whose passion, generosity and commitment help shape a vibrant, connected and thriving Edward River region. From sporting achievements and cultural contributions to environmental stewardship and community service, the Awards shine a spotlight on the people who make a lasting impact.
Mayor Cr Ashley Hall is encouraging residents to take a moment to acknowledge the local champions in their lives.
"Every community has people who give their time, talents and energy to make life better for others, often without seeking recognition," Cr Hall said.
"The Australia Day Awards are an opportunity to celebrate those individuals and organisations and thank them for everything they do. If you know someone who deserves recognition, I encourage you to nominate them."
Nominations are invited across nine award categories:
- Citizen of the Year
- Young Citizen of the Year
- Sports Award
- Junior Sports Award
- Arts & Culture Award
- Junior Arts & Culture Award
- Community Event of the Year
- Community Group of the Year
- Environmental Citizen/Group of the Year (Bill & Elwyn Hermiston Memorial Award)
Edward River Council CEO Jack Bond said the Awards help tell the stories of the people and organisations who contribute so much to community life.
"The Australia Day Awards showcase the best of our region and the many ways people contribute to making Edward River a great place to live," Mr Bond said.
"Whether it's a volunteer who works tirelessly behind the scenes, a young person achieving great things, a community organisation creating opportunities for others, or an event that brings people together, we want to hear their stories."
Council is encouraging residents not to assume someone else will submit a nomination.
"Many deserving people miss out on recognition simply because no one takes the time to nominate them," Mr Bond said.
"If someone has made a difference to your life, your club, your organisation or the wider community, now is the perfect time to acknowledge their contribution."
Nominations open on 2 October 2026 and close on 18 November 2026.
Nominations can be submitted online at www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/Community/Australia-Day-Awards or via hardcopy forms available from Council's Customer Service Centre and the Edward River Library.
Recipients will be announced and celebrated as part of Edward River's Australia Day celebrations on 26 January 2027 in the Waring Gardens.
Nominate your local hero today.
