Borough seeks its next community champions

THE contributions of the Borough of Queenscliffe’s volunteers, community groups and quiet achievers are once again in the spotlight, with entries now open for the annual Community Service Awards.

Presented each year during National Volunteer Week, the awards recognise individuals and organisations that make an outstanding difference across the borough.

Up to two Citizen of the Year awards and one Community Group of the Year award will be presented.

Anyone who lives, works or volunteers in the borough can be nominated by a member of the community, with self-nominations accepted for the Community Group of the Year award category.

A council spokesperson said the strength of the borough lay in the dedication of its volunteers.

“We are incredibly fortunate to enjoy such strong volunteerism and community here in the borough,” she said.

“Across our towns, community members dedicate countless hours of their time, skills and passion to support events both large and small.

“Their contribution is invaluable – major events like the Queenscliff Film Festival and the Queenscliffe Literary Festival simply wouldn’t achieve the success they do without the commitment of dedicated and highly skilled volunteers.”

The Community Service Awards, she said, provide an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate these generous contributions.

“Council encourages residents to consider nominating individuals or community groups who make a meaningful difference in our community,” the spokesperson said.

All nominations will be assessed by the council’s Community Service Awards reference group against set criteria, including community impact, commitment, sacrifice and the extent to which contributions are made on a voluntary basis.

The 2025 awards highlighted both long-term service and community-led action.

Veteran volunteer firefighter Bruce Golightly was named Citizen of the Year for his more than 40 years of service with the Queenscliff Fire Brigade, while Queenscliffe Climate Action Now (QCAN) was recognised with the Community Group of the Year award for its work advancing sustainability initiatives across the borough.

The 2026 Community Service Awards will be presented in May. Nominations will close on February 23 at 5pm.

For more information, or to make a nomination, head to queenscliffe.vic.gov.au