Australia Day Awards

2026 Nominees

About 

• We’ve announced the nominees for the 2026 Australia Day Awards. 
• The nominees will be celebrated and winners announced at a special presentation evening on Thursday 22 January 2026 at the Cardinia Cultural Centre in Pakenham. 
• The award categories include: Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Event of the Year. 
• The Australia Day Awards celebrate and recognise those who have shown a willingness to lend a helping hand, concern for the environment or participated in sport, arts or cultural endeavours. They share the aspirations of all Australians in respect of tolerance, democracy, equity and equality of opportunity. 
• For more information about the awards and previous years' winners and nominees, visit our Australia Day Awards webpage. 

2026 Citizen of the Year Nominees

Brijal Parikh 

Brijal Parikh is an inspiring volunteer whose leadership and compassion strengthen Cardinia Shire. A dedicated CFA volunteer and Justice of the Peace, he supports residents with empathy and integrity. Brijal coaches local soccer and cricket, founded badminton and table tennis clubs, and mentors young drivers through the L2P TAC program, encouraging youth to be active and connected. As a board member of Living Learning Pakenham and part of the Multicultural Advisory and COVID-19 Recovery Committees, he helps shape inclusive initiatives. He unites neighbours through residents’ groups and celebrates cultural diversity via Celebrate India, Vaishnav Sangh of Melbourne, and the Cardinia Gujarati Association. Brijal personally supports new migrants, often opening his home to those in need. Most importantly, he inspires others to volunteer, mentoring and motivating community members to give back. His kindness, leadership, and commitment truly embody the spirit of community service in Cardinia Shire.

 

Caroline Roff 

Caroline Roff has been a driving force in Koo Wee Rup since 2007. Starting out editing, and coordinating the advertising, printing and 
distribution of The Blackfish newsletter, increasing the publication’s readership to around 1,400. Caroline also joined the Township Committee and has continued to serve as President since 2016 and as acting Treasurer over the past few years. Caroline is an active advocator for better roads, public transport, and community infrastructure, including the Koo Wee Rup Bypass and upgrades to Koo Wee Rup-Pakenham Road. The visionary behind the mural on Woolworths’ rear wall facing Cochrane Park and a judge for the annual Christmas lights competition, Caroline contributes to our township’s unique character and identity, creating welcoming places that foster community pride, enjoyment and connection. Caroline further supports inclusion in our community, helping at the Seniors Citizen Club since 2009, organising the local Australia Day Awards, and supporting Anzac Day ceremonies ensuring the involvement of schools and scouts. Her commitment extends to St John the Baptist Primary School, where she served as Secretary, Fete Committee member, and Canteen Coordinator during her children’s schooling. Caroline’s energy and leadership have made a lasting impact on Koo Wee Rup, creating opportunities for connection and celebration

 

Coral Belrost 

Caroline Roff has been a driving force in Koo Wee Rup since 2007. Starting out editing, and coordinating the advertising, printing and distribution of The Blackfish newsletter, increasing the publication’s readership to around 1,400. Caroline also joined the Township Committee and has continued to serve as President since 2016 and as acting Treasurer over the past few years. Caroline is an active advocator for better roads, public transport, and community infrastructure, including the Koo Wee Rup Bypass and upgrades to Koo Wee Rup-Pakenham Road. The visionary behind the mural on Woolworths’ rear wall facing Cochrane Park and a judge for the annual Christmas lights competition, Caroline contributes to our township’s unique character and identity, creating welcoming places that foster community pride, enjoyment and connection. Caroline further supports inclusion in our community, helping at the Seniors Citizen Club since 2009, organising the local Australia Day Awards, and supporting Anzac Day ceremonies ensuring the involvement of schools and scouts. Her commitment extends to St John the Baptist Primary School, where she served as Secretary, Fete Committee member, and Canteen Coordinator during her children’s schooling. Caroline’s energy and leadership have made a lasting impact on Koo Wee Rup, creating opportunities for connection and celebration.

 

Kim Thomsen 

For more than 31 years, Kim Thomsen has led the Cardinia Civic Concert Band as Conductor and Lead Director, bringing music and joy to countless community events. Kim was Artistic Director of the Pakenham Christmas Carols in 1994 and led the Cardinia Performing Arts Company for over a decade, producing local theatre at the Cardinia Cultural Centre. She also ran the junior performing arts group “Not Yet Discovered Theatre,” nurturing young talent. Kim has taken local performers overseas, including tours in Europe, showcasing Cardinia’s creativity on the world stage. Her dedication to music and the arts has enriched community life and inspired generations of performers. Kim’s outstanding contribution reflects a lifelong commitment to excellence and cultural vibrancy.

 

Lisa Ann Hicks 

Lisa Hicks has served as a CFA volunteer firefighter for 50 years, 35 of those in Cardinia Shire. A recipient of the Australian Fire Service Medal, Lisa is Group Community Safety Coordinator for Pakenham Upper CFA and has played a pivotal role in major incident control centres for three decades. She has fought some of Victoria’s largest fires and delivered the Fire Safe Kids program to schools and kindergartens for 20 years, educating the next generation about fire safety. Lisa’s dedication, leadership, and expertise have made her an invaluable asset to the CFA and the Cardinia community.

 

Moira Eveleens 

Moira Eveleens is known for her kindness and commitment to community wellbeing. At Pakenham Library, Moira goes beyond her role, helping people access resources and support during challenging times. She is actively involved in local action groups and the Together We Can partnership, contributing to projects that strengthen community safety and connection. Moira played a key role in facilitating Rosie Batty’s visit during the 2024 16 Days of Activism, creating a powerful platform for survivors of violence to be heard. Her reliability, empathy, and tireless efforts make Moira a trusted and valued member of Cardinia Shire.

 

Queyea Tuazama 

Queyea Tuazama, affectionately known as Mama Queyea, is the heart behind the United African Farm in Cardinia. She works tirelessly to share African heritage and foster community cohesion. Through partnerships with local organisations, Mama Queyea supports the African Homework Club and provides guidance to young families. She organises farm workshops for schools, promoting food growing, education, and cultural exchange. Mama Queyea also assists young African mothers with resources, referrals, and even temporary housing when needed. Her energy, generosity, and commitment have created opportunities for learning and connection across Cardinia Shire.

 

Renuka Vijayakumaran 

Renuka Vijayakumaran has spent over 15 years championing inclusion and empowerment in Cardinia Shire. As a member of the Multicultural Advisory Committee, she has helped shape policies that reflect the community’s diversity. Renuka completed the Cardinia Community Leadership Program and mentors others with integrity and care. Through CSIRO’s STEM Professionals in Schools, she inspires students to explore science and innovation. On 92.3 FM, Renuka amplifies migrant voices and tackles stigma around mental health and gender. Her contributions have been recognised by MAV Victoria and KHSM Victoria, and she has been nominated for state volunteer awards and won many international awards. Renuka’s leadership and advocacy have made Cardinia a stronger, more connected community.

 

Robb Evans 

Robb Evans founded Liv’s Legacy in honour of his daughter, Olivia, who died from anorexia nervosa at 15. Robb has turned grief into action, securing over $56 million for eating disorder research and treatment programs, including hospital-in-the-home services and therapy dog programs at Alfred Health and Monash Children’s Hospital. His advocacy helped Australia legislate a minimum social media age of 16, and he represented the nation at the UN General Assembly to promote global protections. Robb’s work has transformed care for families and influenced national policy. Robb was also nominated for 2026 Australian of the Year (Sept 2025). His courage and determination continue to create lasting change.

 

Stephen Paul Hicks 

Stephen Hicks has been a CFA volunteer firefighter for more than 50 years, including 35 years in Cardinia Shire. A recipient of the Australian Fire Service Medal, Steve serves as Deputy Group Officer and plays a critical role in incident control during major bushfires. He is a respected leader, trainer, and mentor, dedicated to educating the community and supporting new CFA members. Steve’s decades of service reflect unwavering commitment to safety and resilience across Cardinia and Victoria.

 

Sonya Boloski 

Sonya Boloski is a passionate community leader whose efforts span youth development, fundraising, and welfare support. As a Guide Leader, she empowers girls through leadership and life skills. Sonya founded the MND Walk around Lakeside, raising nearly $200,000 for research over six years. For the past 12 years, she has volunteered monthly on the St Vincent de Paul Soup Van and serves as President of the NZ RSL, supporting New Zealand Armed Forces veterans across Victoria. Her “Kits for Kids” initiative provides relief during natural disasters. Sonya’s energy and compassion have made a profound difference to countless lives.

 

Vanessa Kewish 

Vanessa Kewish is the founder of Emerald Village Exercise and Recreation (EVER), a group dedicated to improving parks and recreation in Emerald. During COVID, Vanessa championed a pop-up skate park, gathering community evidence that led to the permanent Worrell Reserve Skate Park, opened in February 2025. Her advocacy secured government funding and delivered a much-needed facility for local youth. Vanessa’s grassroots leadership and determination have created lasting benefits for the Emerald community.

 

2026 Senior Citizen of the Year Nominees

Maureen Timms 

Maureen Timms has been an outstanding volunteer with Palliative Care South East since 2012, contributing more than 150 hours through the companionship program. In 2025 alone, she dedicated at least 30 hours to supporting clients and the palliative care team. Maureen consistently goes above and beyond, taking on extra clients and offering exceptional care and support. Her commitment extends beyond PCSE as she also volunteers with Relay for Life, Monash Casey, and St John of God, reflecting her deep dedication to community service. Even while taking a short pause after the passing of her last client, Maureen continues to inspire through her generosity and positive example. Her compassion and selflessness make her a true role model and a deserving nominee for Senior Citizen of the Year.

 

Merle Mathisen 

For more than 25 years, Merle Mathisen has championed environmental conservation as a leader of Friends of Gembrook Park. Her passion has kept the group thriving and inspired others to join. Merle works tirelessly to protect Gembrook’s natural environment, advocating for weed control and raising awareness through partnerships with the Gembrook Community Group and Puffing Billy. She has successfully secured grants for advertising, weed management, and environmental improvements, including work at the Gembrook Pony Club. Merle has built strong relationships with local schools, creating annual programs that connect students with nature. She also leads initiatives such as the Gembrook streetscape committee and the “Say No to Ivy” campaign. Merle’s dedication has preserved local biodiversity and strengthened community engagement with the environment.

 

Ted Godwin 

Ted Godwin has devoted his life to preserving railway heritage, beginning as a young volunteer with Puffing Billy and evolving into a respected leader and historian. From selling sweets to passengers at 14 to serving as Train Officer, Senior Train Officer, and Chair of major railway organisations, Ted’s contributions have safeguarded historic locomotives, carriages, and infrastructure for future generations. He has organised special train tours, maintained archives, and shared historical knowledge, enriching community understanding of railway history. Ted’s work has created recreational and educational opportunities for thousands, fostered friendships among volunteers, and strengthened local heritage. His lifelong dedication reflects a profound commitment to preserving history and building community spirit.

 

2026 Young Citizen of the Year Nominees

Eliza Owen 

Eliza Owen has shown exceptional dedication to her community through volunteering with the Emerald SES and CFA. From a young age, Eliza supported logistics and welfare during major storms—even when her own home was destroyed. Officially joining SES at 15, she quickly became a trusted team member, assisting with storm response, flood recovery, landslides, and community engagement. Her calm leadership during the February 2024 storm, where she played a critical role in a rescue operation under extreme pressure, demonstrates her resilience and professionalism. Eliza has earned her CFA five-year service award and is recognised as a youth leader in Emerald and Cockatoo. She achieved all this while completing VCE and recovering from the loss of her family home in the 2021 storms. Eliza’s strength, positivity, and commitment make her an inspiring role model for young people. 

 

Keilah Joy Dewar 

Keilah Joy Dewar has been an active community contributor since age 13, starting with a primary-age activity program where she quickly stepped into leadership. She later supported Blue Moose, a youth drop-in centre, and became a mentor for a child needing extra support. At Emerald Secondary College, Keilah served on the Student Representative Council, raising funds for school and community initiatives, and was elected Music Captain and, in Year 12, School Captain. She joined the local MP’s youth advisory committee and the Emerald Village Committee to advocate for young people. Keilah’s leadership, empathy, and commitment have earned her multiple awards and the respect of her peers. Her passion for creating opportunities and amplifying youth voices makes her a standout advocate for the youth of the area. 

 

Priyansh Parikh 

Priyansh Parikh has transformed opportunities for young people through his work with Officer City Soccer Club. Starting with little knowledge of soccer, he became an assistant coach in a program for families who couldn’t afford competition fees, later volunteering to coach an Under-11 team that was about to fold. His leadership turned the group into a confident, united team. Priyansh organised a refereeing course with Football Victoria, mentoring new referees and introducing the club’s first female referee. As Chair of the Youth Committee, he empowered young members to lead and contribute meaningfully. Beyond formal roles, his creativity—such as dressing as the Easter Bunny for junior players—reflects his genuine care for building a welcoming environment. Priyansh’s passion and generosity have strengthened the club and inspired others to get involved.

 

2026 Community Event of the Year Nominees

Emerald Arts Society Annual Art Exhibition

For 55 years, the Emerald Arts Society has hosted its Annual Art Exhibition, a highlight of the local calendar. Held over the Cup Day weekend at the Emerald Hills Hub, the exhibition showcases works from adults and young artists through to its “Next Generation” section supporting young and emerging artists. Featuring paintings, sculpture, drawings, and mixed media, the event attracts entries from across Victoria and interstate, giving emerging and established artists the chance to display and sell their work. Supported by Cardinia Shire grants and local business sponsorships, the exhibition includes categories for different mediums and age groups. A dedicated committee spends six months preparing for the show, which features more than 200 exhibits and draws over 400 visitors across four days. This long-standing event celebrates creativity and strengthens community connections through art.

 

Officer Community ANZAC Day Dawn Service 

Since 2016, the Officer Community ANZAC Day Dawn Service has brought residents together to honour those who served. Held at the Officer Memorial Gates, the event began after their restoration and has grown into a major community tradition, attracting over 1,000 attendees in 2025. Organised by the Officer Community Association, Officer Recreation Reserve Committee, and Officer Kangaroos Junior Football Club, the service involves months of planning and a 4am start for volunteers. Local groups contribute by cooking breakfast, setting up seating and marquees, arranging wreaths, and providing lighting and first aid. Schools, scouts, and community organisations also take part. This collaborative effort reflects the community’s deep respect for ANZAC Day and its commitment to remembrance.

 

Sing for Unity 

On 21 September 2025, the Lyrebirds Choir, a vibrant inclusive community choir of over 50 members with diverse backgrounds and abilities, hosted Sing for Unity at the Hills Hub as part of the United Nations Day of Worldwide Peace. The event brought together over 80 performers from choirs including ColourNotes, Sweet Sassafras, and Tune-In Group Singing, with more than 200 community members attending. Coordinated in just three months by a small organising team, the event was supported by Emerald Lions, Cardinia Shire Council, local businesses, and community groups. Through music, Sing for Unity created a powerful message of hope, peace, and global connection. The Lyrebirds’ leadership and collaboration made this inspiring celebration of diversity and harmony possible.

Nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards are closed

 The award categories are:

• 2026 Citizens of the Year
• 2026 Senior Citizen of the Year
• 2026 Young Citizen of the Year
• 2026 Community Event of the Year

Our annual Australia Day Awards recognise local citizens who have shown a willingness to lend a helping hand, concern for the environment or participated in sport, arts or cultural endeavours.

The awards also celebrate outstanding local community events which have had a positive impact on building connections across our community and support inclusion and community participation.

Nominees and winners represent what it is to be an Australian and through their actions, promote tolerance, democracy, equity and equality of opportunity.

Council promotes the opening of nominations on our website, social media platforms and in our publications. Find out more online at News, Publications and Media.

See Previous Australia Day Award winners for more information about previous years' winners and nominees.

Previous Australia Day Award winners

See more previous years’ Australia Day Award nominees and winners at:

• 2025 Australia Day Award winners
• 2024 Australia Day Award winners
• 2023 Australia Day Award winners
• 2022 Australia Day Award winners
• 2021 Australia Day Award winners