Colac Otway Shire Community Awards - Nominations Closing Soon!

Published on 17 November 2025

There’s still time to shine a spotlight on the people who make Colac Otway a great place to live.

Time is running out to nominate someone special for the 2026 Colac Otway Shire Community Awards.

Nominations for the annual Citizen of the Year awards close at midday on Wednesday 26 November.

This year’s revamped awards have four categories:

Citizen of the Year – Local Impact Award. For someone making a lasting difference in their community.

Young Citizen of the Year – Rising Star Award. For a young person aged 18 or under who is showing leadership, creativity, or commitment to making a positive impact.

Community Service Leader – Helping Hands Award. For someone who uplifts others through dedication, compassion, and grassroots involvement.

Creative and Active Contribution – Culture & Connection Award. For individuals or groups who energise community life through creativity, sport or cultural engagement.

Nominees must live in or contribute meaningfully to Colac Otway Shire. Their contributions can be in leadership, volunteering, youth development, arts, sport, or community building.

Award recipients will be announced at the Shire’s 2026 Australia Day Event on 26 January at Cressy Aerodrome.

To nominate someone, visit www.colacotway.vic.gov.au/community-awards