Nominations are now open for Wattle Range Council\u2019s 2027 Citizen of the Year Awards, celebrating the people, groups and events that make a positive difference across the Council area.<\/p>\n
Nominations close Friday, December 11, and can be submitted online or in hard copy.<\/p>\n
From dedicated volunteers and community leaders to inspiring young people and successful local events, the awards are an opportunity to recognise those who go above and beyond for others.<\/p>\n
Mayor Des Noll encouraged residents to nominate someone deserving.<\/p>\n
\u201cMany of the people making the biggest impact in our communities do so quietly and without seeking recognition,\u201d Mayor Noll said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you know someone who deserves to be recognised, I encourage you to put their name forward. A nomination is a simple but meaningful way to say thank you and ensure their contribution does not go unnoticed.\u201d<\/p>\n
Award categories are:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Citizen of the Year<\/p>\n
\u2022 Young Citizen of the Year<\/p>\n
\u2022 Community Event of the Year<\/p>\n
\u2022 Active Citizenship<\/p>\n
\u2022 Youth Recognition Awards (Five separate categories):<\/p>\n
\u2013 Contributions to the<\/p>\n
Community<\/p>\n
\u2013 Environment and<\/p>\n
Sustainability<\/p>\n
\u2013 Inspiration by Innovation<\/p>\n
\u2013 Achievement through the<\/p>\n
Arts<\/p>\n
\u2013 Learning Success<\/p>\n
Council\u2019s director development services Emma Clay said the awards play an important role in recognising community contribution and encouraging emerging leaders.<\/p>\n
\u201cWattle Range is fortunate to have so many people who give their time, skills and energy to support others,\u201d Ms Clay said. \u201cThe Youth Recognition Awards also provide an opportunity to celebrate and encourage our emerging young leaders.\u201d<\/p>\n
The 2026 recipients included Janet Brodie, Elizabeth Groom and Cory O\u2019Connor, with Jack Francis and Holly Lowndes among the young people recognised.<\/p>\n
Recipients will be selected by an independent judging panel, with winners announced at Wattle Range Council\u2019s Australia Day events held across the area.<\/p>\n
Last year, Council changed the Citizen of the Year Awards to follow the guidelines of the Australia Day Council of SA creating a single award program that recognises outstanding contributions across the entire Council area.<\/p>\n