Nominations for the 2027 Bellingen Shire Council Community Awards Program open on Monday 28 September.
The program is an annual celebration recognising the unsung heroes of the Bellingen Shire who dedicate their time, energy, and creativity to strengthen our community. Nominations can be made across eight categories, with the Ian J Cooper Access and Inclusion Award now joining the Community Awards Program.
Bellingen Shire Council Mayor, Cr. Steve Allan, said the Ian J Cooper Access and Inclusion Award, originally held every two years on International Day of People with Disability, will now form part of the annual Community Awards Program.
“The award honours Ian J Cooper, a local pioneer in disability access advocacy and founding member of the Bellingen Shire Access Committee, whose legacy continues through the work of people and organisations helping to create a more accessible and inclusive Shire,” said Mayor Allan.
“The move to bring the Ian J Cooper Award to a wider audience as part of the annual awards event elevates its importance and increases inclusion with a focus on celebrating the achievements and contributions of people and organisations creating positive change for people living with disability.”
The award categories include:
Citizen of the Year Award
The Citizen of the Year Award is an opportunity to honour that remarkable individual, those who selflessly dedicate their time, energy, and resources to enhance the well-being of our community. Do you know someone whose contributions or achievements are immeasurable, whose impact is undeniable, and whose dedication is unparalleled? Nominate them now!
Young Citizen of the Year Award
This category celebrates the younger members of our community, those under 25 who exhibit exceptional creativity and hard work. Whether it’s through leadership, artistic endeavours, community service, or other remarkable achievements, we want to hear about the young individuals who are shaping our community’s future. If you know a young person who’s making a difference, nominate them for the Young Citizen of the Year Award.
Sport & Recreation Award
The Sport & Recreation Award is designed to recognise the athletic heroes of our community. These heroes could be sports champions, dance afficionados, or those who work tirelessly behind the scenes managing administration or cheering on the sideline. It could also be an individual or team who brings vibrancy and passion to our community’s leisure activities. So, think about those whose dedication to sports and recreation enriches the lives of others, and nominate them for their efforts.
Arts & Culture Award
The Arts & Culture Award shines a light on the people and groups who bring our community to life through creativity—whether it’s art, music, performance, literature, or heritage. This recent addition award is all about celebrating the talent and culture that inspires and connects us across the Shire. Know someone making a difference in the arts and cultural space? Nominate and recognise them today.
Environment & Sustainability Award
The Environment & Sustainability Award celebrates individuals or groups making a positive impact on our natural surroundings. Whether through conservation, sustainable practices, education or advocacy, their efforts help protect and preserve our Shire, ensuring it remains healthy and vibrant for future generations. Nominate today and celebrate those leading the way in caring for our environment.
Community Impact Business Award
The Community Impact Business Award is all about celebrating local businesses that go the extra mile for our Shire. These are the enterprises that don’t just do business, they make a real difference by creating positive social, cultural, economic, or environmental impact. Do you know a business that’s giving back and going above and beyond their core operations? Help shine a spotlight on their contribution by nominating today.
Home Grown Heroes Award
We are looking for our Shire’s Homegrown heroes – these are people from any area of community life. Whether that is volunteering, emergency services, or working hard to support others in our community, they are the ones who step in and are dedicated to fostering community spirit. This award celebrates the dedication and commitment to an individual or community group. If you have a person or group in mind that deserves recognition, don’t miss this opportunity to nominate them.
Ian J Cooper Access & Inclusion Award
The Ian J Cooper Access and Inclusion Award recognises those going above and beyond to make the Bellingen Shire more accessible, inclusive and welcoming for people living with disability. Whether through inclusive programs, improved accessibility, advocacy, innovation or finding new ways to remove barriers, this award celebrates the people and organisations creating lasting positive change in our community. Do you know someone making a difference? Nominate them today.
Nominations for the Community Awards close at 5pm on Monday 2 November, so make sure to submit your nominations before the deadline.
The Community Awards are all about recognising the extraordinary efforts of individuals, groups and businesses that make our Shire a stronger and more vibrant place to live. Nominate your local heroes today and help us honour their outstanding contributions.
The awards night will be held on Thursday 28 January 2027, at the Bellingen Memorial Hall, bringing our community together to celebrate the achievements and dedication of our local heroes.
For more information or to submit your nominations, please visit our website at: www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au/Community/Community-Awards
Don’t miss out on joining the celebration. Book your spot early to be part of this inspiring event!