Moira Shire’s star achievers at 2026 Moira Achiever Awards. Photo: Rhonda Doyle.
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Rhonda Doyle
From young achievers to community volunteers, the shire’s ‘unsung heroes’ were recognised at the annual Moira Achiever Awards ceremony on Thursday, April 23.
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Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson said they were delighted to highlight the individuals and groups who went above and beyond for the community.
“These awards recognise the often unsung heroes of our community – the tireless workers who make Moira a better place to live,” he said.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have so many dedicated and passionate volunteers who generously contribute their time, skills and energy for the benefit of others.”
Tungamah local Dianne Sampson, who has been a serving member of the Tungamah Cemetery Trust for more than 25 years, was awarded the Star Achiever of the Year award.
She was instrumental in obtaining grants for the cemetery, including the creation of a new toilet block and rotunda, and she is currently working on applying for a grant to improve the safety of the cemetery.
Dianne is also a long-term member of the Tungamah Hall committee, bowling club and the football and netball club.
Cobram Secondary College principal Kimberley Tempest with student Abbie Milne, winner of the Young Star Achiever of the Year award.
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Cobram Secondary student Abbie Milne, who was previously awarded Junior Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day awards, was awarded the Young Star Achiever of the Year award.
Abbie was selected from more than 500 applicants nationwide as one of only 25 students in the prestigious CSIRO Young Future Shapers program.
She is an active member of the school’s senior concert band and is also a member of the Cobram Barooga Paddling Club, winning three medals at her first Victorian school paddling competition.
Cobram Secondary College student Emma Corrin was awarded the Shining Star Achiever of the Year awardfor her kindness, work ethic and passion for learning.
Emma is a dedicated canoeist with Cobram-Barooga Canoe Club, holding multiple state and national titles.
Cobram Secondary College principal Kimberley Tempest with student Emma Corrin, winner of the Shining Star Achiever of the Year award.
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She has earned the Raj Award and John Lidstone Award and has built strong connections with Australian Olympic paddlers, aspiring to follow in their path.
Cobram Secondary College principal Kimberley Tempest said the school was “incredibly proud” of what the students had achieved.
“Their dedication, hard work and positive contributions to our school and wider community continue to inspire those around them,” she said.
The Cobram SES Unit was awarded Community Star Achiever of the Year award for demonstrating outstanding dedication to community safety through road crash rescue, flood and storm response, emergency prevention and public education.
Volunteers provide rapid and reliable support when the community needs it most, working seamlessly with CFA, Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police.
The Cobram SES Unit was awarded the Community Star Achiever of the Year award at the 2026 Moira Achiever Awards.
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Through structured training, public safety activities and practical community education, the unit helps residents understand risks and take action before emergencies occur.
Limelight Touring Company in Yarrawonga was awarded the ACE Star Achiever of the Year award for its contribution to the Moira Shire culture.
Founded by Brenda Spilva, it has represented the shire on a national stage at many events, including the Adelaide Fringe Festival.
They also deliver youth drama programs and bring accessible cultural experiences to local communities.
Dr Emonson praised all the award nominees and winners.
“We sincerely thank them and applaud them for their outstanding efforts,” he said.