From volunteers and mentors to fundraisers, event organisers and quiet achievers, Ballarat is full of people who make a difference.
Now is the community’s chance to celebrate and recognise those who go above and beyond for the benefit of others, with nominations open for the 2027 Ballarat Australia Day Community Awards.
The annual awards celebrate individuals and groups who contribute their time, skills and energy to improving the lives of others, strengthening community connections and inspiring civic pride.
The awards recognise the unsung heroes who help make Ballarat such a great place to live, work and visit, while also acknowledging community events that bring people together and create lasting positive impacts.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the awards were an opportunity for the community to formally recognise people whose contributions often take place behind the scenes.
“Every community has people who quietly give their time, talents and energy to make life better for others,” she said.
“These awards are an opportunity to shine a light on those contributions, say thank you, and celebrate the spirit that makes Ballarat such a special place.”
The annual awards feature three categories:
- Ballarat Citizen of the Year
- Ballarat Young Citizen of the Year
- Community Event of the Year
“This year’s award recipients demonstrated the extraordinary impact that individuals and community groups can have when they dedicate themselves to supporting others and strengthening our community,” Cr Hargreaves said.
“I encourage everyone to think about the people, organisations and events that have made a difference over the past year and submit a nomination.”
The 2026 Ballarat Australia Day Community Awards recognised three outstanding local achievements.
James Waight was named Citizen of the Year for transforming his personal experience with cancer into a community fundraising movement that has raised more than $300,000 for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute.
Delaney Troon received Young Citizen of the Year after raising more than $210,000 for men’s mental health through her “21 Twenty Ones” challenge, while the Grill’d City Support Event was recognised as Community Event of the Year for providing free meals and connection for vulnerable community members.
Nominations for the 2027 Ballarat Australia Day Community Awards close on 31 October 2026.
Award recipients will be announced at a special presentation ceremony in January 2027.
