Nominations open for Scenic Rim’s 2026 Australia Day Awards

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Published
22 September 2025
Image of Mayor with winner of 2025 Australia Day award

Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp congratulates 2025's Citizen of the Year 16-30 years Typhoon le Garde

A new award celebrating the Scenic Rim's community spirit will be presented at Council's 2026 Australia Day Awards to be presented on Monday 26 January 2026 at The Centre Beaudesert.

Nominations have now opened for the awards, applauding the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals, groups and organisations across the Scenic Rim, with categories recognising leadership, community service and events that bring people together.

The new Community Spirit Award will recognise the efforts of individuals and community groups during times of crisis or through everyday acts of kindness and leadership.

Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said the awards were an opportunity to shine a light on the people who make a difference in the region.

“The Scenic Rim is a place where community spirit thrives, and these awards are a way of saying thank you to those who go above and beyond for their neighbours, friends and community,” he said.

“Whether it’s someone who has organised a great local event, a young person doing inspiring things, a respected community leader, or a neighbour who has shown extraordinary kindness, we want to hear their stories.”

The award categories are:

  • COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD for the individual, group or organisation having staged the most outstanding community event in the Scenic Rim. Events must have taken place between 30 November 2024 and 30 November 2025.
  • CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD (16 – 30 years) for an exceptional young person aged 16-30, accomplishing great things in all walks of life, making a positive and outstanding contribution to the Scenic Rim community. Must be between 16 and 30 years of age as at 26 January 2026.
  • CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD (31 – 65 years) A leading citizen, considered an inspirational role model to the Scenic Rim community and a person who inspires a friendly, caring and engaged community. This person has taken risks, done the hard yards and had a positive impact on a wide range of people in the Scenic Rim. This award recognises their extraordinary commitment to service in the local community over a number of years. Nominees must be between 31 and 65 years of age as at 26 January 2026.
  • CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD (65+ years) for an inspirational person aged 65 and over, who continues to achieve and contribute outstanding service to the local Scenic Rim community. A person who proudly gives back to the community and presents a positive image of ageing. Must be aged 65 years or older as at 26 January 2026.
  • COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARD Recognising the incredible effort of individuals and community groups during times of crisis or through everyday acts of kindness and leadership in their community between 30 November 2024 and 30 November 2025.

    Nominations close on Monday 10 November 2025.

To nominate an outstanding community member or event, visit scenicrim.smartygrants.com.au or phone Council on 5540 5111 for more information.