Who do you think should be Greater Bendigo's next Citizen or Young Citizen of the Year?
Nominations are open for the 2026 Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year awards, which recognise people who make a difference in our community.
The nominees can be anyone who is involved in serving the community in a voluntary capacity, whether that be in sport, arts, culture, community service, not for profit organisations, business or education.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said there were many Greater Bendigo residents who had gone above and beyond for their community this year.
"These are people who channel their time, energy and goodwill for the benefit of the community in unpaid roles," Cr Metcalf said.
"This is your opportunity to put forward someone who quietly contributes through charity work, managing community sport or events, or through a community service organisation - someone who actively works to make our community a better place.
"Tell us who you think is a shining example and why they should be recognised as the next Citizen or Young Citizen of the Year for 2026."
Nominating someone is quick and easy. You are asked to briefly describe why you think your nominee should be recognised for their great voluntary work in a short online form.
Nominees must be residents of the City of Greater Bendigo and the Young Citizen of the Year must be under 25 years of age on January 26, 2026.
The closing date is 5pm, Friday November 21, 2025.
Recipients of the awards will be announced in January 2026.
The award winners will be invited to attend several civic events in 2026, including citizenship ceremonies and their names will be included on the Honour Roll in the Bendigo Town Hall.
