Shine A Light On A Local Legend By Nominating Them For An Aus Day Award
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for their community?
Maybe it’s a friend, a neighbour, or a colleague you’ve always meant to nominate for a volunteer award, now’s the time to act!
Cowra Shire Council is stressing the importance of local achievers being recognised for their hard work, and is calling on residents to nominate a “local legend” for the 2026 Cowra Shire Council Australia Day Awards.
Categories for next year’s awards, which will be presented at a special ceremony on 26th January 2026 at the Cowra Civic Centre, include:
- Cowra Citizen of the Year
- Cowra Young Citizen of the Year
- Cowra Community Group of the Year
- Dr Warren Whiley Memorial Award (For significant contributions to Arts, Culture, and Citizenship).
Nominations close Friday 14th November, 2025.
“Often, our local legends are the quiet achievers, the people who turn up, week in and week out, giving their time and energy without expecting recognition. By nominating them for an
award, you’re not just celebrating their contribution. You’re helping to share their story and inspire others,” said Cr Tony Horton, Chair of Cowra’s Australia Day Committee.
“With a range of award categories, the Cowra Australia Day Committee is calling on the community to help highlight the individuals and groups who make the Cowra Shire such a vibrant and connected place to live,” Cr Horton added.
The 2025 Award recipients included local musician, thespian and author Lusi Austin (Citizen of the Year), Cowra High School Vice-Captain and senior Youth Councillor Callie Bridges (Young Citizen of the Year), Lachlan Valley Railway Society (Community Group of the Year), Richard Neate (Dr Warren Whiley
Memorial Award), and former Mayor and Chair of the Cowra Japanese Garden Board, Bill West (Cowra Community Service Medal). Nomination forms are available in various formats via Cowra Council’s website. For more information, contact the Community Development Team at communityprojects@cowra.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 6340 2064.
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