Image Caption: 2026 Australia Day Awards winners pictured with Mayor Byrne.
Local residents and community groups whose dedication and service have made a lasting impact across The Hills Shire were recognised at Council's 2026 Australia Day Awards Ceremony, held on Wednesday 21 January at the Pioneer Theatre.
The annual event celebrated the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations across five categories: Community Group of the Year, Environmental Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Sporting Citizen of the Year, and Citizen of the Year.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, said the ceremony was an important opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable volunteer spirit that underpins the community.
"The Hills is incredibly fortunate to have such a strong culture of volunteering and community service," Mayor Byrne said.
"From supporting families and veterans, to protecting our environment, mentoring young people and strengthening community connections, the people recognised today give their time and compassion purely to make life better for others."
"Their generosity reflects the very best of Australian values and reminds us of the power of community to create meaningful, positive change."
2026 Australia Day Award Recipients
Community Group of the Year
Winner: Soroptimist International of The Hills District
Celebrating 45 years of service, Soroptimist International of The Hills District was recognised for its long-standing advocacy, fundraising, sustainability initiatives and support for women, families and young people across the Shire.
Environmental Citizen of the Year
Winner: Anne Thompson
Anne was honoured for her innovative circular economy work, transforming textile waste into practical products, keeping tonnes of material out of landfill while educating and inspiring future generations.
Young Citizen of the Year
Winner: Jethro Sultano
Jethro was recognised for his exceptional leadership and volunteer work across community service, youth programs, fundraising and school representation, contributing positively to multiple organisations across The Hills.
Highly Commended: Sienna Kallas
Sienna was acknowledged for her outstanding fundraising efforts through Dance for Sick Kids, raising more than $100,000 to support families at Ronald McDonald House, while also excelling internationally in dance.
Sporting Citizen of the Year
Winner: Sophie Polkinghorne
A three-time national champion, Sophie was acknowledged for combining elite sporting achievement with leadership, sportsmanship and strong community involvement.
Highly Commended: Ethan Odell
Ethan received Highly Commended recognition for his achievements as an inspirational para-athlete, demonstrating resilience, determination and leadership through his involvement in rugby league and athletics.
Citizen of the Year
Winner: Professor Olivia Mirza
Professor Mirza received the Shire's highest honour for her outstanding leadership in STEM education and her measurable community impact through outreach programs supporting girls, migrant families and under-represented students.
The Australia Day Awards Ceremony forms part of Council's broader Australia Day celebrations.
Other events scheduled for Monday, 26 January include the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony, flag raising ceremonies, a pool party at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre and an evening celebration at Bella Vista Farm headlined by Australian Idol winner Marshall Hamburger as well as an appearance from some of your favourite Sesame Street characters and a fireworks finale.
To learn more about Council's Australia Day celebrations, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search 'Australia Day 2026'
