Port Stephens' most dedicated community members recognised at the Port Stephens Annual Awards, announced as part of Australia Day celebrations.
Presented by Mayor Leah Anderson, the Port Stephens Annual Awards honour individuals and groups whose commitment, leadership and generosity make Port Stephens a stronger, more connected community.
Mayor Anderson said Australia Day is about community, belonging and looking out for one another.
"Our annual awards celebrate those in our community who give their time and energy to others, and our award recipients represent and embody those values," Mayor Anderson said.
"These are people who don't seek recognition, but whose efforts make a real difference in people's lives every single day. From sport and volunteering to leadership, kindness and resilience, the Port Stephens Annual Awards recipients remind us how lucky we are to live in a community where people genuinely care," she added.
Citizen of the Year, Andrew Barron, was recognised for his tireless service to the Raymond Terrace community through disaster response, volunteering, sport and advocacy. Young Citizen of the Year, Xavier Vaughan, was recognised for his compassion, creativity and fundraising efforts that have supported causes locally and beyond.
Sportsperson of the Year, Zoe Smith, was acknowledged for her outstanding achievements across rugby, touch football and rugby league, paving the way for young female athletes and representing Port Stephens with pride on state and national stages.
Cultural Endeavour award winner, Jason Russell, was celebrated for his commitment to Aboriginal culture. As the founder of Koori Colours Art Gallery, where he promoted cultural awareness and reconciliation through art and education, inspiring future generations through his dedication to artistic expression.
Environmental Award winner, Sue Johnson, was recognised for her dedication to ecological preservation and her leadership within local Landcare groups and the Port Stephens Koala Hospital. Her commitment to the community shines even more through educational initiatives at Tomaree High School, where she inspires students and peers alike to protect the natural environment.
Three Port Stephens Medals were also awarded to Helen Bellamy, Peter Clough and Heather Noonan, recognising decades of dedication to community support, regional development and grassroots leadership across the Tomaree Peninsula.
Mayor Anderson said the strength of the Annual Awards nominees reflects the strength of the wider community.
"Every nominee should be incredibly proud. The standard of nominees this year was exceptional, and it shows just how many people quietly give their time to help others, build connections and make Port Stephens a better place to live," Mayor Anderson said.
Mayor Anderson also acknowledged the volunteers, community organisations and sponsors who helped make both the Annual Awards and Australia Day celebrations possible.
"Our Australia Day events simply wouldn't happen without the incredible efforts of volunteers, community groups and sponsors," Mayor Anderson said.
"I'd like to sincerely thank the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club for their ongoing support of the Raymond Terrace celebrations, Veolia for supporting Australia Day events across Port Stephens, and the National Australia Day Council for their continued backing through grant funding.
"These partnerships help us bring people together and create moments that matter for our community."
The Annual Awards were presented alongside the Citizenship Ceremony and official Australia Day proceedings, forming part of a broader program of celebrations held across Port Stephens.
