2026 Community Awards Program Opens with Three New Awards Categories
Published on 01 October 2025
Nominations for the 2026 Bellingen Shire Council Community Awards Program are now open, an annual celebration recognising the unsung heroes of the Bellingen Shire who dedicate their time, energy, and creativity to strengthen our community. Nominations are now open for seven categories, including three new awards – Arts & Culture, Environment & Sustainability and Community Impact Business– reflecting our vision of a community that is connected, sustainable, and creative.
Citizen of the Year Award
The Citizen of the Year Award is an opportunity to honour that remarkable individual, those who selflessly dedicate their time, energy, and resources to enhance the well-being of our community. Do you know someone whose contributions or achievements are immeasurable, whose impact is undeniable, and whose dedication is unparalleled? Nominate them now!
Young Citizen of the Year Award
This category celebrates the younger members of our community, those under 25 who exhibit exceptional creativity and hard work. Whether it's through leadership, artistic endeavours, community service, or other remarkable achievements, we want to hear about the young individuals who are shaping our community's future. If you know a young person who's making a difference, nominate them for the Young Citizen of the Year Award.
The Sport & Recreation Award is designed to recognise the athletic heroes of our community. These heroes could be sports champions, dance aficionados, or work tirelessly behind the scenes managing administration or cheering on the sideline. Someone or a team, who brings vibrancy and passion to our community's leisure activities. So, think about those whose dedication to sports and recreation enriches the lives of others. and nominate them for their efforts.
Arts & Culture Award
The Arts & Culture Award shines a light on the people and groups who bring our community to life through creativity—whether it’s art, music, performance, literature, or heritage. This new award is all about celebrating the talent and culture that inspire and connect us across the Shire. Know someone making a difference in the arts and cultural space? Nominate and recognise them today.
Environment & Sustainability Award
The Environment & Sustainability Award celebrates individuals or groups making a positive impact on our natural surroundings. Whether through conservation, sustainable practices, education or advocacy, their efforts help protect and preserve our Shire ensuring it remains healthy and vibrant for future generations. Nominate today and celebrate those leading the way in caring for our environment.
Community Impact Business Award
The Community Impact Business Award is all about celebrating local businesses that go the extra mile for our Shire. These are the enterprises that don’t just do business, they make a real difference by creating positive social, cultural, economic, or environmental impact. Do you know a business that’s giving back and going above and beyond their core business operations? Help shine a spotlight on their contribution by nominating today.
We are looking for our Shire’s Homegrown heroes – these are people from any area of community life. Whether that is volunteering, emergency services, or working hard to support others in our community, they are the ones who step in and are dedicated to fostering community spirit. This award celebrates the dedication and commitment to an individual or community group. If you have a person or group in mind that deserves recognition, don't miss this opportunity to nominate them.
Nominations for the Community Awards close at 5pm on Monday 10 November, so make sure to submit your nominations before the deadline.
The Community Awards are all about recognising the extraordinary efforts of individuals, groups and businesses that make our Shire a stronger and more vibrant place to live. Nominate your local heroes today and help us honour their outstanding contributions.
The awards night will be held on Friday, 23 January 2026, at the Bellingen Memorial Hall, bringing our community together to celebrate the achievements and dedication of our local heroes.
About the Bellingen Shire Community Awards Program:
The Bellingen Shire Community Awards program is an annual initiative that aims to recognise and celebrate the remarkable individuals and groups who make significant contributions to the Bellingen Shire community. By highlighting the efforts of local heroes, the program aims to inspire others and strengthen the bonds within our community. We invite everyone to participate by nominating deserving individuals and groups who exemplify the spirit of the Bellingen Shire.