Yorke Peninsula, Barunga West, and Copper Coast Councils are encouraging residents to nominate local heroes for the 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards.
The awards, presented by the Australia Day Council of South Australia and administered by local councils, recognise individuals and organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to the community.

This is your opportunity to shine a light on the people and groups who work tirelessly to make our communities stronger and better.
Whether it’s through education, health, fundraising, charitable services, business, sport, the arts, the environment, or any other area that enhances the well-being of the community, these unsung heroes deserve recognition.

Nominations for the 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards are open until 15 November 2024.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit https://citizenoftheyear.com.au/nominate/.

 

Quotes attributed to Yorke Peninsula Council Mayor Darren Braund

“These awards are an important way to celebrate the contributions of everyday people who do extraordinary things.

“Our communities thrive because of the passion and dedication of individuals and groups who give so much of themselves, often without seeking recognition.
“The Citizen of the Year Awards offer us the chance to formally acknowledge these efforts and celebrate the positive impact they’ve had on our region.
“We encourage everyone to think about the people in their community who are always working behind the scenes, and who may not otherwise receive the recognition they deserve.”

 

Quotes attributed to Copper Coast Council Mayor Roslyn Talbot

“Every day in regional communities we hear of people doing great things. But too often those who go above and beyond don’t get the recognition they deserve. This is our chance to say thanks.

“Community service, putting in for the less fortunate, having a go, these are great Australian ideals.

“Celebrating the winners and their achievements within the community is a highlight of my job.”

“Share their story, listen to the stories of others and celebrate the people around you.”

 

Quotes attributed to Barunga West Council Mayor Leonie Kerley

“Whether it’s a neighbour, a volunteer, or a community group, these awards allow us to honour the people who make Barunga West stronger, kinder, and more connected.

“We are fortunate to have so many individuals and groups committed to the wellbeing of our community.

“The Citizen of the Year Awards is a fantastic way to show our appreciation for their contributions.”

 

Award Categories:

• Citizen of the Year: Recognising someone making an extraordinary contribution to the community, with outstanding service over a number of years. To be eligible, the nominee must be an Australian citizen.
• Young Citizen of the Year: Celebrating a young emerging leader making a real difference in their community. The nominee must be an Australian citizen aged over 16 and under 30 years as of 26 January 2025.
• Community Event of the Year: Awarded to a person or group that staged an outstanding event for the community. The nominee must be an Australian citizen or group of Australian citizens.
• Award for Active Citizenship: Recognising a person or group delivering outstanding work on an event or project for the community during the past calendar year. The nominee need not be an Australian citizen.