The initiative will celebrate the outstanding individuals who give their time, skills and heart to strengthen the Edward River region.
Nominations are now open for the awards which recognise volunteers of all ages who demonstrate exceptional commitment, leadership and community spirit, with three age-based categories acknowledging young, adult and senior volunteers for their contributions.
Finalists and winners will be honoured during National Volunteers Week, with the official celebration lunch to be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the Edward River Library.
Edward River Council Mayor Ashley Hall said the Community Volunteer Awards highlight the significant contributions made quietly and consistently across the region.
“Volunteers play a vital role in shaping our community,” he siad.
“This program allows us to acknowledge their commitment over the past twelve months and give residents the chance to honour those who devote their efforts to helping others.”
Stage one of the process is nominations, with community members asked to put forward their local volunteer heroes.
To qualify, nominees must have volunteered at least 20 hours with a not‑for‑profit community group between June 2025 and May 2026 .
Stage two will be community-led voting for finalists, which will open on council’s website once nominations have been collated.
Nominees will be sorted into three categories, as follows:
- Young Volunteer of the Year - 24 years and under. Nominees under 18 must provide parental consent.
- Adult Volunteer of the Year - 25 to 64 years
- Senior Volunteer of the Year - 65 years and over.
Nominations are open now, and close on April 19. Community voting will run from May 1 to 19.
Nominate online at https://www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/Community/Community-Volunteer-Awards-2026 or pick up a form at Edward River Council’s customer service centre.
17°C