Community Awards

Our Community Awards celebrate individuals and groups whose passion, dedication, and service inspire others and strengthens our community. 

Held on Friday 22 May during National Volunteer Week, the awards saw strong interest across all 8 award categories, with a total of 35 nominations recognising contributions across youth leadership, inclusion, the environment, arts, sport, and community events. 

2026 Community Award recipients

Youth Leadership: Molly Clare 

Recognised for their compassionate leadership as a mentor with Full Spectrum Theatre. 

Young Citizen of the Year: Tate Kemp and Matilda Matthews 

Tate recognised for their powerful advocacy for disability inclusion through All Abilities Public Speaking. Matilda recognised for their outstanding youth leadership, community volunteering and advocacy for social justice and youth voices. 

Contribution to Environment: Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network 

Recognised for their dedicated volunteer work rescuing and caring for injured wildlife while educating the community on wildlife protection. 

Contribution to Community Arts: Natalie Davis 

Recognised for their contribution to community arts, creating inclusive projects that uplift and connect communities. 

Contribution to Sports and Wellbeing: Woodend Cricket Club 

Recognised for using sport to visibly advocate respectful relationships. 

Inclusive Communities: Social Foundry 

Recognised for work supporting vulnerable community members through inclusive training, leadership and volunteering opportunities. 

Community Event of the Year: Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group Veg Action for Edgy Veg Awards 

Recognised for inspiring healthier and more sustainable food choices while supporting local businesses and producers. 

Citizen of the Year: Kathleen Wyatt 

Recognised for their outstanding service to the community fostering connection and contributing to community safety.