A NEW cohort of community champions was celebrated last Friday at the 2026 Sunshine Coast Australia Day Community Awards, recognising the people, organisations and creative leaders whose dedication continues to strengthen the region.
Local nominees across six categories included Linda and Craig Young (Seniors), Mooloolah Valley Community Organisation, Peachester History Committee, RangeCare and Veterans Wellbeing Foundation (Community Organisation) as well as, Lea Dodd, Kenilworth Arts Council and Viera Keogh (Creative Arts).
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the collective impact of this year’s nominees was genuinely inspiring.
“These awards pay tribute to the volunteers, groups, artists and quiet achievers whose kindness, resilience and vision make our community a better place,” Mayor Natoli said.
Citizen of the Year was awarded to Selina Tomasich, founder of global charity Hair Aid, recognised for her sustained, life-changing impact locally and internationally.
Senior Citizens of the Year, Phil and Di Wilson, were honoured for more than 30 years of foster care, while Young Citizen of the Year, Jessica Cronin, was recognised for outstanding youth leadership and advocacy.
Creativity was also in the spotlight, with the Creative Arts category awarded jointly to the Kenilworth Arts Council and Gretchen Keelty, acknowledging decades of volunteer-led cultural programming and landmark public art projects that unite communities and increase access to the arts.
Community Group or Organisation of the Year went to Lookout07, while a posthumous award honoured June Upton, fondly remembered as the Sunshine Coast’s “Charity Queen” for her lifetime of service and fundraising. www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/2026-scadca-nominees
