Community Awards Shine a Spotlight on Local Heroes in Bellingen Shire

Published on 01 November 2023

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Council is excited to announce the launch of the 2024 Community Awards Program, an annual celebration that recognises and honours the unsung heroes of the Bellingen Shire who tirelessly work behind the scenes to strengthen our community. Nominations are now open for four distinct categories. These awards are designed to shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to ensure our community remains 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.

Sport & Recreation 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 some team, who bring vibrancy and passion to our community's leisure activities. So think about those whose dedication to sports and recreation enriches the lives of others? Nominate them.

Home Grown Heroes Award

We are looking for our Shire’s Homegrown heroes – these are people from any area of community life, volunteering, including sport, arts and culture, emergency services and the environment.  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 the opportunity to nominate them.

Nominations for the Community Awards close at 5pm on Friday 15 December, so make sure to- submit your nominations before the deadline.

The awards night will take place on Thursday 25 January 2024, at the Bellingen Memorial Hall, where we will come together as a community to celebrate the accomplishments and dedication of our local heroes. More information will be provided closer to the date.

These awards are a chance to highlight the exceptional efforts of those who contribute to- the tapestry of our community and make our Shire a better place for us all. Nominate your local heroes today and join us in honouring their outstanding contributions.

submit your nominations, below: