Citizen of the Year Winner

Blakey Johnston

Blakey Johnston is undoubtedly a deserving candidate for the local hero award. For the past three decades, he has been an unwavering source of inspiration and support for our community, particularly in the realm of youth mental health. Blakey's remarkable dedication to this cause shines brightly through his epic 40-hour surf challenge, an event that has not only raised awareness about mental health issues but also generated essential funds for local youth support programs.

Citizen of the Year 2024 - Blakey Johnston

Young Citizen of the Year Winner

Jenson Wade

Jenson Wade is 7 years old and a keen environmentalist. He is passionate about our local waterways and has organised campaigns to clean them up, he rallied 30 volunteers and together they collected 162 kilos of rubbish from Woolwooware bike path in just 2 hours. Jenson then went on to lobby Council to install bins in the area to prevent the waste coming back. Jenson is now working on his 2024 plans… watch this space!

Young Citizen of the Year 2024 - Jenson Wade

Community Group of the Year Winner

Sutherland Shire Toy Restoration Centre

The Sutherland Shire Toy Restoration Centre in Jannali is a group of retirees who volunteer their time to sell and repair toys that have been donated by the community. All of the money the shop makes by selling donated and restored toys goes back into several community groups for distribution to needy families in the Sutherland Shire.

Community Group of the Year 2024 -Sutherland Shire Toy Restoration Centre

Environmental Citizen of the Year Winner

Sutherland Shire Council Community Nursery volunteer propagation specialists

Group of four dedicated and passionate volunteers whose specialized knowledge and experience strongly support the nursery team in production planning, data base management, propagation and identification of new species, collating and storing of records, calendar of seed availability and assisting in maintenance of display beds within the nursery.

Environmental Citizen of the Year WinnerSutherland Shire Council Community Nursery volunteer propagation specialists

Citizen of the Year Nominees

Gaye Cameron

Gaye Cameron has always been looking out for the forgotten and those in need. Working locally a social worker and psychotherapist in NSW supporting a range of victims who are survivors of domestic abuse, child abuse and crime, she goes above and beyond in providing support and care for these survivors including out of hours care and advocates strongly for reform in this area of need. Gaye has a strong moral compass which is fulfilled with care, compassion and community pride.

Jacinta Frawley Werger

Jacinta is a survivor and advocate for ovarian cancer awareness. Her advocacy work has been featured on various media platforms locally and nationally. She was involved with raising significant funds for the WomenCan charity, locally Jacinta established an information display at Engadine library and contributes to local fundraising events and social events for women with ovarian cancer.

Jaime-Lee O-Conner

Jamie-Lee is CEO and co-founder of Phoenix Community Project Inc. Jamie is a vibrant passionate woman who selflessly devotes her time in our community. Phoenix Community Project Inc has grown at an alarming rate, seeing the need to expand their services to ensure young people with disabilities are given every opportunity to shine in our community.

Jason Hebbard

Jason is a coach at one of the Shire's most welcoming and friendly fitness communities - CrossFit Inventive. His nomination is for his tireless support of one of the gym member's family who lives life with Down Syndrome. Jason has taken Elliot under his wing and provides 1:1 training and support to Elliot in the gym as well as across the Shire (parks, footy fields, National Park, beaches etc) to give Elliot an opportunity to train and develop physically and emotionally.

Lorna Mangin

Lorna was a Staff Member at Juliana Village for more than 10 years. In that time, she chose to work as a Volunteer on her days off. She is so appreciated by Staff & Residents here at the Village. Lorna prepares art activities and takes craft home to cut out. When she is here helping, she is kind, friendly & very helpful with residents & staff.

Tom Evans

Tom Evans has dedicated >40yrs to supporting the growth and development of Baseball in the Sutherland Shire. He has served in a wide range of roles on the local Associations that help govern Baseball in the Shire, as a coach and manager of representative teams, and is currently President of St George Minor League Baseball Association and Bonnet Bay Baseball Club.

Young Citizen of the Year Nominees

Amy Lloyd

Amy is a wonderful representative for young people in the community. Her volunteer work over the years across several youth organisations including with Enough is Enough, the Michael Marslow Foundation, headspace, and Sutherland Shire Council Youth Reference Group is a testament to her dedication to the community and her passion for mental health.

Olivia Carroll

Olivia is highly motivated and makes the most of every opportunity. She has been selected as a member of the State Drama ensemble for the past 7 years and has been instrumental in raising the profile of performing arts at Heathcote High School. She demonstrates a high level of leadership through her involvement with the Student representative Council.

Community Group of the Year Nominees

1st Wearne Bay Sea Scouts Group

Based at Illawong, 1st Wearne Bay Sea Scouts is a community organization dedicated to providing young people aged 5-18 years old with enriching and adventurous experiences that foster growth, personal development and leadership.

Gymea Community Aid & Information Service

The service is a not-for-profit community services organisation based in Gymea. They connect people by offering a broad range of community programs and initiatives that champion diversity, social inclusion, participation, independence and wellbeing.

St Vincent De Paul – Gymea Conference

The organisation is lead by President Frank, he has been instrumental in his drive and dedication to help the less fortunate than himself. They regularly provide needy/vulnerable clients with clothing, rental assistance, white goods, food bags, and health and medical assistance.

Wondering Women

Wondering Women are a not for profit community with 2,900 members. Promoting Health and Wellness, our aim is connecting women with other women through Social Prescribing. They regularly fundraise for various charities and causes to help those in need as well as providing many social activities and events.

Environmental Citizen of the Year Nominees

Bob Crombie

Bob has spent his life working, caring for and protecting the natural environment. Bob has been advocating for the protection of the Royal National Park since 2020 and the Port Hacking since the 1980s.

Shire Climate Action Network

The network is a group of local residents who rally together to educate and raise awareness about climate change and promote strong practical actions to mitigate and adapt to a zero emissions economy within the Sutherland Shire.

Sutherland Shire Council Community Nursery volunteer propagation specialists

Group of four dedicated and passionate volunteers whose specialized knowledge and experience strongly support the nursery team in production planning, data base management, propagation and identification of new species, collating and storing of records, calendar of seed availability and assisting in maintenance of display beds within the nursery.

Citizen of the Year Winner

Ken Warburton

2023 Sutherland Shire Citizen of the Year, Ken Warburton

Ken Warburton is a Sutherland Shire native, and staunch advocate and fundraiser for people with disability. He is the founder and director of the Pre WWII-Car Show and a Sylvanvale Member. The car show has raised over $120,000 with over 5,000 attendees at this year's show. Ken’s event promotes inclusion, social wellbeing and harmony by drawing together people of all ages and abilities from many diverse parts of the community.  By raising funds for Sylvanvale, his work improves access to important community services and equipment for people with disability.

Young Citizen of the Year Winner

Joshua Craig

2023 Sutherland Shire Young Citizen of the Year, Joshua Craig

Joshua Craig has been helping the Sutherland Shire with the NSW SES Cronulla unit for over 5 years. He also volunteers to promote a great fan experience at the Sharks home games, offers assistance when people have been in a crash or broken down, providing first aid at incidents at the beach and at sporting events as well as helping young kids to find a job or write a resume.

Community Group of the Year Winner

Rotary Club of Caringbah

2023 Sutherland Shire Comunity Group of the Year, Rotary Club of Caringbah

Rotary has 40+ active members, who are passionate about supporting the community through a range of national and international projects including Rotary Care Packs, Sutherland Food Services, BBQ’s, Project Youth, Activus transport, Kingsway Care, Kurranulla Aboriginal Group, Sutherland Hospital, Sutherland Food Services, Dandelion Monthly, Adopt-A-Tree, Caringbah Community Markets, End Polio Now, ShelterBox Disaster Relief, Australian Rotary Health, and a container of goods to Tonga. Over the decades they have donated millions of dollars to local community groups, disaster relief and humanitarian projects such as Project Youth Café Y program, Cancer Council, Walk for Respectful Relationships, Lismore floods, Enrichment and Leadership training, U-Turn-The-Wheel Coordination.  The club has created and funded a spiritually significant “Yarning Circle” at Kirinari Hostel in Kirrawee, engaging local indigenous groups.

Environmental Citizen of the Year Winner

Kal Glanznig

2023 Sutherland Shire Environmental Citizen of the Year, Kal Glanznig

Through "Plastic Free Cronulla", which he co-founded in 2019, Kal has delivered positive environmental changes.  Kal speaks at schools and works with the state government to see changes legislated. Kal’s environmental leadership saw him selected onto the 2022 World Oceans Day Youth Advisory Council.  Shire businesses have implemented environmental changes due to Kal's involvement. Recently Kal was invited to attend the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference as a delegate. He has been a part of the Cook Federal Electorate Stronger Communities Grant Panel, plays first grade water polo with Cronulla Sharks Water Polo, is a Water Polo NSW Culture ambassador and a strong advocate for sportsmanship and respect in sport. Kal has recently graduated from the University of Sydney where he was awarded the University of Sydney Blue & Gold scholarship and the Unibank Leaders Scholarship.


Nominees - Citizen of the Year

Bob East

Bob is Gymea men's and women's Probus Club ‘walking pioneer’, which means he must Identify, to reconnoitre, encourage and navigate the walk for our members each month, which he does exceptionally well. He is a selfless, caring bloke and is unstintingly nominated by his colleagues. He has been doing this job for the Probus Club members for years. Considering the emphasis all Government agencies are placing on the need to exercise as we get older, his club members feel he contribution to the community is spot-on.

Bronte Hendricks

Bronte is co -founder of Stellar Experiences a disability support group for young members aged 16- 35 years in the community. Stellar Experiences also support young clients to live Independently and achieve any goals and wish lists they may have. Bronte takes her role beyond and above, being an advocate for people with disabilities and is always available on a personal level with her clients.

Gaye Cameron

Gaye has been a volunteer since 1989 including as the Local Commander for Randwick SES (awarded a NSW Premiers Award for her work), the Sutherland Shire Council Local Flood Planning Committee and a Social Worker and Psychotherapist. In her latest role Gaye provides free services to members of our community less fortunate helping with drug addiction, alcoholism, domestic violence, relationships and more. Gaye has achieved many credentials academically too. Gaye is always giving to community, and never asks much in return.

Graham Avery

Graham is a young Aboriginal man of Dhurga, Djirrinjanj, Gumbaynggirr, Danghutti, and Ngiyampaa language groups decent. Graham volunteers to share culture, conducts research of Dharawal cultural heritage, history, environment, language. Graham shares his extensive knowledge of native bushland, botanical names, foods, and medicines as a volunteer running Yarning Circles, Smoking Ceremonies & practices. Graham also volunteers to help people researching their genealogy lines. Graham is the Chairperson of Sutherland Shire Reconciliation Inc. He is passionate about reviving the Dharawal language and has assisted to develop a Picture Dictionary of Dharawal words given out as a gift to children from Sutherland Shire Reconciliation Inc.

Helen Mabbutt

A group of parents in the Special Education Unit at Endeavour SHS formed a charity SKWAD (Special Kids with a Disability) in 2010. Helen Mabbutt has been an integral part of this team and is the current elected President. Helen has been the driving force behind this team and has worked tirelessly to help promote positive outcomes for Special Education students.

Jamie Gavin

Jamie is a police sergeant at Sutherland police station, he has been a member of the force for the past 28 years, he is an incredibly caring person, he is also a captain at the Woronora bush fire station, where he spends every weekend that he is not working at the police station, he fought the recent bush fires, devoting his life to serving others. He has many awards as a police officer and as the bush fire captain.

Joanne Hurst

Jo is a Wellbeing and Support Officer for the Department of Education. She is passionate about student welfare and works tirelessly to assist public schools and many students, often with additional needs, to reach positive achievements and outcomes. Jo trained to become a Lifeline volunteer where she spends some of her afternoons and weekends listening, supporting and empowering vulnerable members of our community.

Julie McKinnery

Julie has always volunteered her time including participation in many roles at the North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club and Cronulla Caringbah Junior Rugby League Club. Julie’s dedication to the community is unwavering. Julie opens up her home serving breakfast and going well into the night with live music, BBQ, lucky door prizes, raffles and auctions as part of her biggest pink breakfast for Breast Cancer awareness month. Over 200 people visited throughout the day and over $25,000 was raised, making the total upwards of $70,000 since Julie took over hosting the breakfast in 2015. As Julie says “not bad for a backyard shindig”.

Kellie Stubbs

Kellie’s first involvement with mental health awareness was with a real and tragic need after the suicide of one Como Crocs Rugby League fellow members. Since then, Kellie has become a driving force in the Gotcha4Lifes mental fitness program. She has started a “Walk and Talk” program to get some exercise for both the body and the mind.

Lisa Tilsed

Lisa has been an inspiration to thousands of women. Lisa co-created the "Wondering Women Group". This group organises events, walks and weekends away to help women with depression and domestic violence issues. Lisa does all this on top of a demanding full-time job, running a home and also organising things for thousands of women for free.

Serder (Sam) Guner

Sam is a very modest person; he has won various world titles in Taewondo. He has represented Australia all over the world. He has trained over 22 Australian Champions in the past and present, and currently training some of his members to compete at the next Olympic games. Sam doesn't discriminate against people with a disability, he focusses on their ability, giving everyone individual attention and making sure everyone is included in all activities.

Sharon Collon

Sharon's company The Functional Family provides life changing support and strategies for parents of children with ADHD. There is a lack of support offered to the parents. Sharon provides this valuable service and a lot of free resources. She works with passion and dedication. Sharon wants to change how the world sees ADHD.

Sophie Brown

Sophie is a local photographer who has been working on her photography project 'Sutherland Shire Open 4 Business' which connects businesses with the local community since 2019. Sophie hosts a community-based Photography Workshop that help people build connections and increase their knowledge of photography in a time of post covid anxiety. A Board Member of the Sutherland Shire Business Chamber, Sophie has actively been involved in the Chamber as a volunteer as a Board Director and is passionate about helping the economy to grow in our local area.

Nominees - Young Citizen of the Year

Jade Lucy

Jade is a MultiClass swimmer in the S14 category for swimmers with an intellectual disability. Jade has a rare genetic disorder called Tuberous Sclerosis. She also suffers from Epilepsy. Jade has a love of all sports having competed in Swimming, Athletics, Cross Country, Netball, Oztag, Water Polo and Triatholon. Previously, Jade has been selected in the NSWCHS Swimming Team, the National Squad with SLC Aquadot, the INAS Global Games, the INAS World Swimming Championships, the Australian Para Dolphins team and competed at the World Swimming Championships in London. Jade was named captain of the Australian Global Games team and competed in the 2022 Commonwealth Games for women and the Virtus Oceania games held in Brisbane in 2022 . Jade has won many medals and claimed several Australian and Oceania records.

Justin and Lachlan Hess

The twin brothers raise much needed fund for cancer research, various cancer research charities and the Love Your Sister Foundation. Justin is a personal trainer and business owner of his own gym in Kirrawee, and Lachlan is a lawyer. They both turn 25 in October, the age their sister passed away from Ewings Sarcoma 2 years ago.  This year, they hosted the third annual 12 Hour Walk for Nicole in memory of their sister. For two young men who have lost so much, they have helped so many people, both through their fundraising and their attitude to life. They are passionate about the cause and work tirelessly outside their busy day jobs to raise awareness as well as money for cancer and aim to inspire other cancer sufferers and give hope and support.

Kal Glanznig

Through "Plastic Free Cronulla", which he co-founded in 2019, Kal has delivered positive environmental changes.  Kal speaks at schools and works with the state government to see changes legislated. Kal’s environmental leadership saw him selected onto the 2022 World Oceans Day Youth Advisory Council.  Shire businesses have implemented environmental changes due to Kal's involvement. Recently Kal was invited to attend the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference as a delegate. He has been a part of the Cook Federal Electorate Stronger Communities Grant Panel, plays first grade water polo with Cronulla Sharks Water Polo, is a Water Polo NSW Culture ambassador and a strong advocate for sportsmanship and respect in sport. Kal has recently graduated from the University of Sydney where he was awarded the University of Sydney Blue & Gold scholarship and the Unibank Leaders Scholarship.

Megan Cox

Since 2019, Megan has volunteered her time with Civic, Sylvanvale and Engadine Community Services, 40th MS Gong Ride, MS Walk Run & Roll, Dementia Australia Memory Walk & Jog, Cronulla Sharks NRL Club, Skillz4me, Sharks Have Heart charity and the School for Life Foundation Charity Ball. Megan was awarded the 2021 Trainee of the Year in NSW and Australia. In the past year, Megan became an ambassador with the Educational Pathways Program and the Australian VET Alumni. She also mentors' young women through The Orbispace Initiative and volunteers with Inspiring the Future Australia.

Will Angus

Will was awarded1st prize in the “SMC Waratah Award for Young Composers” in both 2021 and 2022, as well as the President’s Prize in the “SMC Banksia Award for Young Composers” in 2019, at the Youth Music Awards. Whilst studying at Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Will tutors trumpet to local Sutherland Shire students, installs artworks at Hazlehurst Art Gallery, works at multiple local businesses and volunteers at the Marrickville Asylum Seekers Centre, the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, the Loaves and Fishers restaurant, community sport in Grays Point and the Oasis Desert Van. He has scored the music for numerous short films, games and is possibly the youngest composer to score a complete feature film. Will’s local community work has included photography of low budget weddings and filming advertisements for small local businesses.

Nominees - Community Group of the Year

Bate Bay Body Bashers

A bodysurfing club established in 2016 to allow members for the community to be bonded by the ocean. Since its establishment the club has grown to over 150 members and continues to serve in and out of the water. In 2020 the Bate Bay Body Bashers Blood Bank was established when group gatherings were banned as a result of the pandemic and since then the local blood bank has benefitted with 30 new donors contributing. The club has also served in several local charity events and raised funds for several community initiatives. In particular, the support of Take 3 for the Sea and Plastic Free Cronulla.

Engadine/Heathcote Community page

A team of three people who put in countless hours to help drive community engagement and support for each other. Including fundraisers for people in need, building business awareness and community engagement.

Shire Animal Rescue

Shire Animal Rescue has been active in the Sutherland Shire since 2014. They are dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation & rehoming of animals. Their objective is to curb the population of stray cats by advocating for and involvement in desexing programs. Rehoming means there is less cats on the street protecting our small native animals. Shire Animal Rescue continues to support new adopters after adopting in the first 14 days & after by having them join the adoption family Facebook group. Orphaned, including neonatal, kittens are hand raised and nurtured by experienced carers before being placed in the adoption program.

Sutherland Music Club

Sutherland Music Club gave music lovers 6 concerts in 2022. The Club organizes the annual Youth Music Awards which sees selected youth perform at the 30th Anniversary Finals Concert. Many past performers have been successful on the “world stage”, this year’s Winner - 14-year-old Maggie Elizabeth Zeng - was offered the opportunity to perform with a professional orchestra at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre in October.

Thrive By Pathways

Thrive is an amazing service to the community, supporting our elderly population through specialised rehabilitation and physiotherapy which is directly designed for people over the age of 60. Thrive by Pathways is a safe, beautiful, and caring space that allows seniors to stay independent for longer.

Wondering Women

Wondering Women is a not-for-profit community group with over 2,000 members. The group organises activities that bring likeminded women together supporting diversity and inclusion. Activities include, walking tours, hiking, swimming, book club, cooking classes, bike riding and retreats. The group undertake fundraising for the Local Cancer Care Foundation, a Women's Shelter, "Waves of Wellness" and various charities at Christmas as well as donating urgent supplies to Lismore flood victims.  Wondering Women's Cloud 9 Mental Health Community Program has been very successful with over 40 women being accredited Mental Health First Aiders who are able to support members of the group and the community.

Zonta Club of Botany Bay

Zonta Club of Botany Bay Incorporated formed in 1994 is advocacy for women. A small group of dedicated women who meet every month and continually raise money for a great variety of needs including young women, disadvantage women, International Aid including the Zonta Birthing Kits and Education sponsorship.

Nominees - Environmental Citizen of the Year

Brian Wilmott

Since 2013, Brian WIlmott has volunteered his time as the unofficial “Rubbish Collection & Removal Manager” for the Potter Point NSW National Park. Working with Sutherland Shire Council Lifeguards, Mark Speakman (MP for Cronulla) and NSW National Park Rangers, Brian has implemented many improvement ideas, reduced litter, improved safety, and cut down on anti-social behaviour. Brian has personally removed tonnes of litter as well as lead and consulted on issues related to litter at Potter Point.

Petra Themsen

Petra Themsen is a learning support officer at Taren Point Public School and an environmental and sustainability warrior encouraging over half of the school’s students to participate in the environment and garden club. Petra has introduced a recycling, composting, worm farms, encouraged staff to be environmentally minded, leads the schools garden club and cares for the school’s bees and chickens. Her passion is also reflected in her private life as she has an off the grid home at Oyster Bay.

Steve Anyon-Smith & Tom Kristensen

Citizen scientists Steven and Tom have found, individually identified and named over 100 previously undocumented koalas within the Heathcote National Park and other parks. They have spent thousands of hours searching and documenting their finds, done educational interviews with the ABC, hosted guided walks to the public and presented talks to raise awareness about these endangered creatures on our doorstep. Both Steve and Tom are also long serving Bushcare volunteers.

Citizen of the Year winner

Sandra Hudson

Sandra Hudson

Sandra Hudson, as a volunteer at Sutherland Shire hospital who organises events to raise awareness of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit including CPR nights, women's heart dinners and the 'Happy Hearts' Sutherland Shire walking group. Sandra also started the 'MRI for Sutherland Hospital' action group.

Young Citizen of the Year winner

Ashleigh Dean

Ashleigh Dean

Ashleigh Dean is a Mental Health advocate working as an active member of the Headspace Youth Reference Group, as well as organising and leading the Wellbeing Day within her school. Ashleigh has achieved the 'highly commendable' award for Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs, as well as becoming the School Captain of her Local High School.

Community Group of the Year winner

Engadine/Heathcote  & Surrounds: New Mum Village

Engadine Heathcote and Surrounds 'New Mum Village' Eliza and Kim

Engadine/Heathcote & Surrounds: New Mum Village. This year when nearly all mothers groups were cancelled, two local mums with newborns created an online community group helping more than 190 mothers in Engadine/Heathcote & Surrounds with their pregnancy and babies. The group plans park playdates, monthly 'Wine Down Wednesday' lunches at which they have raised $500 for Breast Cancer and are starting a local Nanna Morning Tea with community members who can't see their grandchildren due to the border closures.

Environmental Citizen of the Year winner

Sarah-Jo Lobwein

Sarah-Jo Lobwein

Sarah-Jo Lobwein is a marine scientist, science communicator, volunteer, teacher and a passionate conservation educator focussed on reducing plastic consumption and pollution. She is the founder of 'SO Shire' a community organisation – Sustainable Organisations of the Sutherland Shire – who work to protect our natural environment, waterways and beaches.

Nominees - Citizen of the Year

Marilyn Urch and Sandra Hudson

Marilyn Urch (left) and Sandra Hudson spent two years working to have an MRI machine at Sutherland Hospital. At the moment approximagely 800 patients have to travel from Sutherland Hospital to St George Hospital to have an MRI.

Rob Cook

Rob helped set up the Sutherland Shire Community Co-op, an open pantry for Sutherland Shire residents who lost their jobs due to Covid. The co-op brings in over a tonne of fresh food every week, along with a similar amount of long life type foods, equating to more than 1000 meals per week.

Joanne Myers

Joanne volunteers her time to run the Grays Point Girl Guides teaching young girls about caring for the environment and life skills. She is also the NSW Cleft Pals contact new families of babies born with cleft lip and palettes and also helps at the hospital meeting the parents when their baby is born.

Günther Theischinger

Günther Theischinger is a retired entomologist who lives in the Shire. He would be considered one of Australia's leading experts on Dragonflies. In 2020 Mr. Theischinger helped Sutherland Shire Council staff with the identification of a possible rare Sydney Hawk dragonfly larvae.

Thomas McCabe

Thomas has been a dedicated member of NSW Rural Fire Service - Sutherland Communications and Heathcote/HQ Brigade for the past 46 years. Thomas is also an active member of the Sutherland District Secondary Schools Cadet Program.

Andrew Deards

Andrew serves with the Australian Air Force Cadets unit at Sutherland, No.18 Flight as Instructor/Lecturer. He is also a current member of the local Marine Rescue and a member of the Grays Point Rural Fire Service

Nominees - Young Citizen of the Year

Samuel Corby

Samuel Corby is an active member of both NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW State Emergency Service. Today at only 24 years of age, Sam has demonstrated commitment to both Emergency Services as a volunteer member.

Nicholas Creef

Nicholas has cared for families and children through tragedy and mentored students from year 6 to year 7 with disabilities. He has worked with Aboriginal organisations for the welfare of Aboringal families in Sutherland Shire and organised parent breakfasts for the School community.

Bronte Leghissa

Bronte Leghissa developed an online platform to encourage local spending and support local business during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Darian Lenton

Darian founded We, Future Leaders - a tutoring and mentoring company and in less than 12 months has grown from just herself to a team of 25 staff. She is an active volunteer, musician, author and advocate for children in out of home care.

Keiley Mead

Keiley Mead, is a health and wellness advocate and one of the faces of Chronic Pain Australia's 2020 Awareness Campaign. Having suffered personal health challenges, Keiley is now a role model. She is a university student, business owner and disability support worker.

Kai Withers

Kai, a surf life saver and full time apprentice in construction, he dedicates his spare time to assisting kids his own age with disabilities. He goes above the requirements and develops friendships with them and even invites them to his mum’s for dinner.

Nominees - Community Group of the Year

Sutherland Shire Family Services

Sutherland Shire Family Services provides a comprehensive service for women, children and young people, when they are at their most vulnerable. They provide a safety net, financially and emotionally, and help people heal from trauma to rebuild their lives.

Sutherland Food Services

SFS is a Commonwealth Home Support Program funded by The Department of Health to provide meals, wellbeing checks and information to the aged community of Sutherland Shire.

Stellar Experiences

Enabling young people living with disabilities to engage in social activities helping them live their best lives. A social group supporting our additional needs youth to enjoy an inclusive social environment.

3 Bridges Early Years Support Service

Professionally trained and supervised volunteers home visit mothers referred by health & welfare workers for support due to lack of family support, or mothers who have as post natal depression, anxiety, multiple births, ill health and or disability issues, new to the area and Australian Defence families.

Sydney 3 CAMberra

The Sydney 2 CAMberra charity group, which was created in the Sutherland Shire to support families and friends touched by incidents of stillbirth and infant loss. Over nine years this charity has raised/donated over $1.6M to various charities, all done on a volunteer basis.

Sutherland Shire Horse Owners Association Club

Sutherland Shire Horse Owners Association Club has been providing opportunities and support to Junior, Senior and Disabled riders to compete in the sport of Dressage. They also provide opportunities for Race Horses to be retrained and re-homed.

St George/Sutherland Parkinson's Support Group

The Parkinson's NSW St George/Sutherland Parkinson's Support Group provide social and emotional support for people living with Parkinson's and their families and carers in Sutherland Shire. They raise funds to support the ongoing work of Parkinson's NSW by hosting BBQ's and Fashion shows.

Wildlife Emergency Response, Sutherland Shire & Beyond

Wildlife Emergency Response, Sutherland Shire & Beyond is a community response group that has assisted hundreds of injured, orphaned and rehabilitating native animals, following the devastation of recent drought and fire events.

Citizen of the Year winner

Sandra Hudson

Sandra Hudson

Sandra Hudson, as a volunteer at Sutherland Shire hospital who organises events to raise awareness of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit including CPR nights, women's heart dinners and the 'Happy Hearts' Sutherland Shire walking group. Sandra also started the 'MRI for Sutherland Hospital' action group.

Young Citizen of the Year winner

Ashleigh Dean

Ashleigh Dean

Ashleigh Dean is a Mental Health advocate working as an active member of the Headspace Youth Reference Group, as well as organising and leading the Wellbeing Day within her school. Ashleigh has achieved the 'highly commendable' award for Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs, as well as becoming the School Captain of her Local High School.

Community Group of the Year winner

Engadine/Heathcote  & Surrounds: New Mum Village

Engadine Heathcote and Surrounds 'New Mum Village' Eliza and Kim

Engadine/Heathcote & Surrounds: New Mum Village. This year when nearly all mothers groups were cancelled, two local mums with newborns created an online community group helping more than 190 mothers in Engadine/Heathcote & Surrounds with their pregnancy and babies. The group plans park playdates, monthly 'Wine Down Wednesday' lunches at which they have raised $500 for Breast Cancer and are starting a local Nanna Morning Tea with community members who can't see their grandchildren due to the border closures.

Environmental Citizen of the Year winner

Sarah-Jo Lobwein

Sarah-Jo Lobwein

Sarah-Jo Lobwein is a marine scientist, science communicator, volunteer, teacher and a passionate conservation educator focussed on reducing plastic consumption and pollution. She is the founder of 'SO Shire' a community organisation – Sustainable Organisations of the Sutherland Shire – who work to protect our natural environment, waterways and beaches.

Nominees - Citizen of the Year

Marilyn Urch and Sandra Hudson

Marilyn Urch (left) and Sandra Hudson spent two years working to have an MRI machine at Sutherland Hospital. At the moment approximagely 800 patients have to travel from Sutherland Hospital to St George Hospital to have an MRI.

Rob Cook

Rob helped set up the Sutherland Shire Community Co-op, an open pantry for Sutherland Shire residents who lost their jobs due to Covid. The co-op brings in over a tonne of fresh food every week, along with a similar amount of long life type foods, equating to more than 1000 meals per week.

Joanne Myers

Joanne volunteers her time to run the Grays Point Girl Guides teaching young girls about caring for the environment and life skills. She is also the NSW Cleft Pals contact new families of babies born with cleft lip and palettes and also helps at the hospital meeting the parents when their baby is born.

Günther Theischinger

Günther Theischinger is a retired entomologist who lives in the Shire. He would be considered one of Australia's leading experts on Dragonflies. In 2020 Mr. Theischinger helped Sutherland Shire Council staff with the identification of a possible rare Sydney Hawk dragonfly larvae.

Thomas McCabe

Thomas has been a dedicated member of NSW Rural Fire Service - Sutherland Communications and Heathcote/HQ Brigade for the past 46 years. Thomas is also an active member of the Sutherland District Secondary Schools Cadet Program.

Andrew Deards

Andrew serves with the Australian Air Force Cadets unit at Sutherland, No.18 Flight as Instructor/Lecturer. He is also a current member of the local Marine Rescue and a member of the Grays Point Rural Fire Service

Nominees - Young Citizen of the Year

Samuel Corby

Samuel Corby is an active member of both NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW State Emergency Service. Today at only 24 years of age, Sam has demonstrated commitment to both Emergency Services as a volunteer member.

Nicholas Creef

Nicholas has cared for families and children through tragedy and mentored students from year 6 to year 7 with disabilities. He has worked with Aboriginal organisations for the welfare of Aboringal families in Sutherland Shire and organised parent breakfasts for the School community.

Bronte Leghissa

Bronte Leghissa developed an online platform to encourage local spending and support local business during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Darian Lenton

Darian founded We, Future Leaders - a tutoring and mentoring company and in less than 12 months has grown from just herself to a team of 25 staff. She is an active volunteer, musician, author and advocate for children in out of home care.

Keiley Mead

Keiley Mead, is a health and wellness advocate and one of the faces of Chronic Pain Australia's 2020 Awareness Campaign. Having suffered personal health challenges, Keiley is now a role model. She is a university student, business owner and disability support worker.

Kai Withers

Kai, a surf life saver and full time apprentice in construction, he dedicates his spare time to assisting kids his own age with disabilities. He goes above the requirements and develops friendships with them and even invites them to his mum’s for dinner.

Nominees - Community Group of the Year

Sutherland Shire Family Services

Sutherland Shire Family Services provides a comprehensive service for women, children and young people, when they are at their most vulnerable. They provide a safety net, financially and emotionally, and help people heal from trauma to rebuild their lives.

Sutherland Food Services

SFS is a Commonwealth Home Support Program funded by The Department of Health to provide meals, wellbeing checks and information to the aged community of Sutherland Shire.

Stellar Experiences

Enabling young people living with disabilities to engage in social activities helping them live their best lives. A social group supporting our additional needs youth to enjoy an inclusive social environment.

3 Bridges Early Years Support Service

Professionally trained and supervised volunteers home visit mothers referred by health & welfare workers for support due to lack of family support, or mothers who have as post natal depression, anxiety, multiple births, ill health and or disability issues, new to the area and Australian Defence families.

Sydney 3 CAMberra

The Sydney 2 CAMberra charity group, which was created in the Sutherland Shire to support families and friends touched by incidents of stillbirth and infant loss. Over nine years this charity has raised/donated over $1.6M to various charities, all done on a volunteer basis.

Sutherland Shire Horse Owners Association Club

Sutherland Shire Horse Owners Association Club has been providing opportunities and support to Junior, Senior and Disabled riders to compete in the sport of Dressage. They also provide opportunities for Race Horses to be retrained and re-homed.

St George/Sutherland Parkinson's Support Group

The Parkinson's NSW St George/Sutherland Parkinson's Support Group provide social and emotional support for people living with Parkinson's and their families and carers in Sutherland Shire. They raise funds to support the ongoing work of Parkinson's NSW by hosting BBQ's and Fashion shows.

Wildlife Emergency Response, Sutherland Shire & Beyond

Wildlife Emergency Response, Sutherland Shire & Beyond is a community response group that has assisted hundreds of injured, orphaned and rehabilitating native animals, following the devastation of recent drought and fire events.

Citizen of the Year winner

Michael Batty

Michael has given a significant amount of his personal time to community based activities including surf life saving, bushfire brigade, the John Franklin Christmas Day lunch, Sutherland Hospital, and as a board member of Tradies.

Young Citizen of the Year winner

Kal Glanzing

Kal has continually strived to improve our community through the Plastic Free Cronulla initiative, organising $100,000 worth of solar panels for Caringbah High School, being on the Stakeholder Reference Group for the Cronula Plaza redevelopment, and providing an alternative community-driven design for the Boat Harbour redevelopment.

Community Group of the Year winner

Animal Shelter Volunteers

Animal Shelter Volunteers are a group of dedicated people who attend the shelter in rain, hail or shine and provide love and care to the animals by spending time helping to socialise and train them in readiness for when they find a new home. The volunteers also help with cleaning and tidying the facility, washing bedding and cleaning in the dog kennels and runs, and in the cattery.

Environmental Citizen of the Year winner

Chase Cross

Chase is a young community champion, collecting cans and bottles used at home, from restaurants, social and sporting events and even family holidays as part of a school project called “The Planet is there to Share”. Chase collected 2061 in a single school term and through the Return and earn scheme, earned $206.10 which he donated to Love Mercy Foundation. The Foundation is a local Sutherland Shire based charity that helps people in Northern Uganda, Africa.

Nominees - Citizen of the Year

Jane Hall

Jane Hall is a long term, and active, member of Southern Brass (Sutherland Shire Brass), 1st Oyster Bay Scouts, and a volunteer with Australian Breastfeeding Association.

Eric  Tam

Eric has been a volunteer with St John Ambulance for over 20 years. This year he started the St John Ambulance (NSW) - Sutherland Cadets to give young people opportunities to learn new skills, grow in confidence and form strong friendships.

Nominees - Young Citizen of the Year

Luiza Knijnik

Luiza is a proactive member of our community and a passionate advocate for young refugees, educating her peers about the struggles refugees face. Luiza also publishes an online social justice magazine for young people that explores global topics of equality, health, human rights.

Katelyn Peoples

Katelyn has served with St John Ambulance for many years, volunteering for over her set hourly requirements every year with local and state duties and is now an officer within the organisation and second in command of their new youth division.

Nominees - Community Group of the Year

Bonnet Bay Football Club

Bonnet Bay FC operates within a small pocket of Sutherland Shire yet punches well above its weight on and off the field and is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when a community gets behind a well compiled strategy. Named 2018 Best Community Sports Club of the Year by Sports NSW and Best Club at the 2018 Menai District Sports Awards.

Cronulla Rotary Club

Cronulla Rotary is a dynamic bunch of community-minded people who donate their time to help people and groups in our district. The club's focus is on the youth in the Shire and fundraising for local charities.

The OWN Sutherland Wellness Centre

The OWN Sutherland Wellness Centre provides support for women over 50 in a social and health context. Activities run by professional trainers assist women to stay healthy. Lunches, book club, day outings and morning teas provide important social connection. By gaining support, older women continue to play a vital part in their communities, volunteering for many other important services in the Shire and, in turn, supporting those around them.

Sutherland Shire Horse Owners Club

The Sutherland Shire Horse Owners club has been active in the Shire for nearly 40 years, providing Event/Competitions for Dressage riders. It has particularly encouraged young and junior riders to compete and provides events for disabled riders. A Rio Disabled Olympic rider competed at the Como grounds. It's a very friendly club and encourages the sport of Dressage in Sutherland Shire.

Sutherland 2 Surf

The Sutherland 2 Surf (S2S) is a community fun run/walk catering for all ages and levels of physical capability. It is coordinated by a committee of volunteer members from the Wanda Surf Life Saving Club who also dedicate their time to patrol Wanda Beach, educate, coach and train surf lifesavers as well as other activities for the Club.

Nominees - Environmental Citizen of the Year winner

Jannali Rangers

The Jannali Rangers is a group of students and parent/grandparent volunteers from Jannali Public School who work together to look after “The Patch” at the school, a community vegetable garden that encourages and inspires sustainable practices such as food waste avoidance, recycling and composting. It gives students a sense of place and their role in looking after that place and how with little changes big differences can be achieved not just at school but also at home.

Toni Weber

Toni has single-handedly driven change within the community and young and upcoming workforce who she has retrained to hold new ideals of environmental awareness. She is the driving force of sustainable and environmentally friendly choices at her café Mr Paisleys Café including a boomerang cup program, Keep Cup discounts and avoiding single-use plastic in business operations.

Contact the Cultural, Civic and Major Events team