Lismore is full of people who quietly make the city better, but they won’t get the recognition they deserve unless someone puts their name forward.
Nominations are now open for Lismore City Council’s 2027 Australia Day Awards, celebrating the people and groups who make the community a better place to live.
From dedicated volunteers and community leaders to young achievers, sporting champions, environmental advocates, artists, academics, and local innovators, the awards shine a light on contributions that deserve to be celebrated.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said too often the people most deserving of recognition were the least likely to seek it.
“Every one of us knows someone who goes above and beyond for others, often without expecting a single thing in return,” Krieg said.
“They might be the person who keeps your sporting club running, the neighbour who is always helping others or someone whose achievements have brought pride to our community.”
“But here’s the thing. If nobody nominates them, their efforts may never receive the recognition they deserve.”
The 2027 award categories are:
- Citizen of the Year
- Aboriginal Citizen of the Year
- Young Citizen of the Year
- Sportsperson
- Junior Sportsperson
- Sports Team/Club
- Services in Community (Group)
- Services in Community (Individual)
- Arts/Culture
- Environment
- Academic Excellence
- Contribution to Economic Excellence
Nominations can be made online and are open to individuals and groups who meet the award criteria.
To view the criteria and nominate someone, visit the Australia Day Awards page on the council’s website.
Nominations close at 5pm on Monday, 30 November. Award recipients will be recognised at Lismore’s Australia Day celebrations in January 2027.
Krieg urged locals not to leave it to someone else.
“Don’t assume someone else will do it. Take a few minutes, put their name forward and give them the opportunity to be recognised,” he said.
“These awards are about celebrating the people who make Lismore what it is. And that recognition starts with you.”
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