Yass Council are urging residents that Australia Day nominations close 5:00 pm, Monday 1 December. Council said, “Here’s a final reminder to get your nominations for the 2026 Yass Valley Australia Day Awards – where you can nominate an outstanding individual or group who makes a significant contribution and difference to the Yass Valley.
“The awards recognise outstanding achievement, or an event held, during the past year and/or contribution to the local community. All award winners will be announced at the Yass Australia Day event held on Monday, 26 January 2026.”
Awards categories for the 2026 Australia Day awards are:
• Citizen of the Yea
• Senior Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Sportsperson of the Year
• Community Group of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year
• Event of the Year
The nomination form is on the Yass Valley Council website, so be sure to get it in this week.
Individual nominees must be residents of the Yass Valley at the time of nomination. Previous nominees who have not received an award are eligible to be nominated again. Community groups or organisations nominated must be located within the Yass Valley. Young Citizen of the Year must be aged under 26 Years as at 26 January 2026. Senior Citizen of the Year must be aged over 65 as at 26 January 2026.
“Nominations may be submitted by community groups, organisations and individuals using the nomination form available on Council’s website. Hard copies of the nomination form are available from Yass Library and Council’s Administration Office, located at 209 Comur Street, Yass.”
Be sure to get your nominations in sooner rather than later.
Last year, the Citizen of the Year award was presented to Ben McCann for his tireless dedication to local charities and his outstanding work with Apex Village. His dedication to Apex, where he ensures the senior residents are supported, and the grounds are well maintained, showcases his incredible heart for the community, which also has in the past included support to Yass Relay for Life, Duncan’s Legacy, SPIN Foundation, Yass Valley Festivals, Anzac Day, Show Society and Yass FM.
The Senior Citizen of the Year award went to Bimbi Turner, our dynamic and inspiring community powerhouse. Her contributions to Liberty Theatre, Yass Rotary, Red Cross, Yass Hospital Auxiliary and the upkeep of Bowning and Tangmangaroo churches highlight her exceptional energy and continuous dedication to planning, co-ordination and fundraising for a number of our local community organisations.
Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Blake Hollingsworth for his volunteer work with the Yass Railway Museum, Scouts, and the Yass Valley Youth Council. Blake’s efforts demonstrate maturity and generosity beyond his years.
John Thorn received the Volunteer of the Year award for his 12 years of service to the Murrumbateman Village Markets and the broader community. His leadership and hard work have been an inspiration and driving force behind many local initiatives and instrumental in the market’s success.
The Community Group of the Year award was presented to the Binalong Progress Association. This group was recognised for their tireless work supporting residents and enhancing the quality of life in Binalong.
Former president Nigel Wong accepted the award and was also nominated for his individual contributions to the Binalong community. The Event of the Year award went to the Yass Valley Concert Band for their incredible musical performances across the region. From Christmas Carols and the Binalong Twilight Festival to the Yass Christmas Parade and this year’s Australia Day celebration, their hours of practice and dedication have brought excellent music and joy to the community.
If you think a name belongs up there with those from last year, nominate them now.
– Jack Murray
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