NEW SOUTH WALES

Community Achievement Awards for NSW & the ACT

2025 Finalists

 

Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award

Balranald Shire Council has transformed the Heritage Park Reserve, known as the Balranald Discovery Centre precinct, into a thriving destination for tourism, learning, and community connection. Significant upgrades include a $50,000 technology refurbishment of the Interpretive Pavilion, introducing interactive storytelling and touchscreen displays that celebrate local history and Aboriginal heritage, and the construction of the $700,000 Discovery Pavilion, offering flexible space for exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. The precinct features visitor centre, museum and café that engage visitors and locals alike. By blending modern infrastructure with rich heritage, Balranald Shire Council has created a space that celebrates culture, fosters connection, and supports regional economic sustainability.…Congratulations Balranald Shire Council

Bayside Council transformed Barton Park, a long-abandoned landfill and former soccer stadium, into a state-of-the-art recreational precinct that celebrates sport, community, and sustainability. Opened in 2024, the Barton Park Recreational Precinct features multiple football pitches, tennis and multi-purpose courts, playgrounds, fitness zones, and walking trails, providing accessible facilities for residents and visitors. The project restored St George FC to its historic home, revitalising the site’s sporting heritage while ensuring environmental responsibility through asbestos remediation, solar lighting, and biodiversity protection for the nearby wetlands. As Bayside Council’s largest project to date, Barton Park is now a destination fostering active lifestyles, inclusion, and community pride. …Congratulations Bayside Council

Burwood Council has reimagined the iconic Burwood Park, established in 1882, into a modern, inclusive, and environmentally conscious landmark at the heart of Burwood’s CBD. Recent upgrades feature a new adventure playground, revitalised pond, sensory garden, and multiple cultural art installations such as Wilay Mulaa and BLOOM. The park hosts a vibrant program of community events and programs, with developments for an inclusive playground and shaded performance space underway. By balancing heritage and innovation, Burwood Council has created a space that celebrates its cultural diversity whilst promoting active living, connection and embodying community spirit. …Congratulations Burwood Council

Inner West Council has transformed King George Park, Rozelle, into a vibrant and inclusive parkland that celebrates community, culture, and active living. Guided by a community-driven Park Plan of Management and Master Plan, the revitalisation delivered new sports field upgrades, sustainable amenities, and one of Sydney's best Inclusive Playgrounds, designed with community input and supported by Touched by Olivia. The park also features Aboriginal cultural artworks by Mumbulla Creative, upgraded fitness stations, and enhanced access to Iron Cove through pontoons and watercraft facilities. These improvements have created a welcoming space for sport, recreation, and connection, benefiting people of all ages and abilities and the entire community… Congratulations Inner West Council

Richmond Valley Council has revitalised the historic 34-hectare Casino Showground and Racecourse into a leading regional equestrian and events venue through a $14.4 million redevelopment completed in 2024. The transformation delivered a new undercover arena, outdoor sand training arena, modern stables for 80 horses, and upgraded infrastructure, lighting, and spectator amenities. Beyond equestrian events, the precinct now hosts agricultural shows, rodeos, concerts, trade expos, and cultural festivals—attracting participants from across NSW and interstate. The Council’s inclusive and flexible management approach has turned the Showground into a vibrant, multifunctional community hub that celebrates local heritage, supports tourism, and strengthens social connection. …Congratulations Richmond Valley Council

 

Crown Land Management Excellence Award

Bogan Gate Recreation Reserve Land Manager has restored its Reserve as the social and sporting heart of the small rural township. Managed by a dedicated volunteer Land Manager Board, the Reserve secured over $750,000 in grants to deliver major upgrades, including resurfaced tennis courts, new lighting, fencing, and an upgraded clubhouse with Wi-Fi and accessible facilities. It now supports junior and senior tennis programs, the town’s first women’s netball team, and community resilience initiatives through partnerships with the NSW Rural Fire Service. The revitalised Reserve has become a vibrant hub for recreation, social connection, and emergency preparedness, enhancing inclusivity, wellbeing, and pride across generations within the community. …Congratulations Bogan Gate Recreation Reserve Land Manager

Lightning Ridge Area Opal Reserve Crown Land Manager is one of the most unique and significant Crown Land Reserves, spanning over 20,000 hectares across the iconic opal fields. Managed by a diverse volunteer local community board, the Reserve balances mining, culture, education, tourism, and conservation in remarkable harmony. Over the past 18 months, it has launched the Wandella Education and Research Hub, partnered with schools and universities to deliver youth and Indigenous programs, implemented an Indigenous-led share farming program across 3,000 acres, and undertaken major environmental works including Hudson Pear spraying and biocontrol releases, feral pest management programs, and infrastructure upgrades to roads and firefighting resources.…Congratulations Lighting Ridge Area Opal Reserve Crown Land Manager

Narrabri Showground Land Manager oversees the Narrabri Showground. Home to over a dozen local organisations, from equestrian and harness racing clubs to Riding for the Disabled and the Narrabri Show Society, hosting events ranging from shows, rodeos, and youth camps to weddings and emergency evacuations. In the past 18 months, the volunteer Board has delivered significant upgrades including new solar power, arena lighting, fencing, pavilions, accessible amenities, and powerboard safety improvements. These initiatives have increased safety, usability, and environmental sustainability while supporting tourism and community wellbeing. With over $2 million in improvements, the Showground is now a modern, inclusive, and thriving centre for the community. …Congratulations Narrabri Showground Land Manager Board

Port Stephens Community Arts Centre Land Manager has revitalised a former World War II hospital into a flourishing community space that celebrates creativity, connection, and resilience. The volunteer-run organisation manages 17 arts and crafts groups, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and social events for over 300 members and the wider public. Recent flood recovery works and improvements have enhanced safety, accessibility, and sustainability, supported by Create NSW grants. The Centre also provides vital social connection, crafting joy, shared beauty, inspiring community and serves as a cultural and economic asset for Port Stephens. They ensure this historic reserve continues to enrich the community for generations. …Congratulations Port Stephens Community Arts Centre

Windeyer Recreation Reserve Land Manager has transformed a historic reserve into a thriving centre for recreation and community life. Managed entirely by dedicated local volunteers, the reserve now features a new children’s playground, upgraded accessible amenities, and improved tennis courts—creating a safe, family-friendly space for residents and visitors alike. Hosting markets, sporting events, fundraisers, and social gatherings, the reserve continues to unite people of all ages while supporting local groups such as the Rural Fire Service and Progress Association. With modest community funding and countless volunteer hours, the committee’s commitment ensures the reserve remains well-maintained, welcoming, and central to Windeyer’s social and cultural identity. …Congratulations Windeyer Recreation Reserve Land Manager

 

Konica Minolta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Community Achievement Award

Bush to Bowl is fostering respect, inclusion, and opportunity across generations. Bush to Bowl is a 100% Aboriginal-owned social enterprise founded in 2019 by Clarence Bruinsma (Yaegl) and Adam Byrne (Garigal) to reconnect people with Country through bush foods and cultural education. Based in Ingleside, the enterprise grows and sells native plants and foods while mentoring Aboriginal people to establish their own native food businesses. With over 90% Aboriginal staff, Bush to Bowl promotes cultural pride, wellbeing, and employment through workshops, bush tucker walks, and partnerships with schools and corporate organisations. Despite early challenges, Clarence and Adam have built a thriving community hub. …Congratulations Bush to Bowl

Cherie Johnson, a proud Gamilaroi and Weilwun woman from Northern NSW, is an award-winning artist and educator based in Newcastle. Holding a Diploma in Teaching, a Bachelor of Fine Arts, and currently pursuing a PhD in Aboriginal Philosophy, Cherie is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) in 2023. She is the Founder and Managing Director of Speaking in Colour (2010), Miti Nukang Ltd (2025) and non-executive director of the Yadha Muru Foundation. Her work spans sculpture, photography, and dance, with a focus on cultural storytelling. In 2023, she won the IMAGinE Award for Indigenous Curator of the Year and continues to make a significant impact on education, cultural revitalization, and Indigenous leadership.…Congratulations Cherie Johnson and Speaking in Colour

Deadly Connections Community & Justice Services of Sydney is dedicated to creating a future where Aboriginal people, families, and communities can heal and thrive. Founded in 2018, this Aboriginal led, community-driven organisation breaks cycles of systemic racism, violence, trauma and disadvantage through culturally safe, trauma-aware, and strengths-based programs that promote healing, justice and empowerment. Through mentoring, cultural strengthening, diversion, advocacy, and community outreach, DC promotes self-determination and builds sustainable pathways for change. By centring culture, connection, and compassion, Deadly Connections strengthens identity, nurtures lateral love, and builds safer, stronger communities... Congratulations Deadly Connections Community & Justice Services

Literacy for Life Foundation of Sydney is championing self-determination and equality. Founded in 2013, Literacy for Life Foundation is a First Nations community-controlled organisation addressing low adult literacy rates across Aboriginal communities. Led by proud Ngemba man Professor Jack Beetson, the Foundation empowers adults to build reading, writing, and digital skills through locally delivered, culturally grounded programs. Operating in 19 communities, it has supported over 500 students to improve literacy and confidence, while training and employing more than 100 local Aboriginal staff. The initiative also strengthens family engagement, cultural pride, and community participation. Its evidence-based approach has influenced national policy, proving that community-led literacy campaigns create lasting change. …Congratulations Literacy for Life Foundation

One Vision Productions of Mullumbimby exemplifies justice reinvestment. Founded by Mark Robertson, One Vision Production (OVP) is a social enterprise transforming youth justice through creativity, culture, and opportunity. Drawing from Mark’s lived experience, OVP’s Three-Tier National Youth Justice & Employment Pathways Initiative supports young people, especially Indigenous youth, to re-engage with education, employment, and community. The program combines intensive mentoring, digital tools like the MPOWER App, and creative workshops such as Music for Change, providing culturally safe, trauma-informed support that reduces recidivism and strengthens identity. Over 17 years, OVP has co-designed programs with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, empowering youth through self-expression, skill-building, and leadership. …Congratulations One Vision Productions

 

Caption by Hyatt Connecting Communities Award

Home-Start Family Services Australia has been committed to strengthening and connecting communities since 1989 and is empowering families in 17 LGAs and 36 towns across NSW, to give their children the best possible start in life. With a network of 16 professional staff and 182 trained volunteers, Home-Start provides over 23,000 hours of support annually through home visits, parenting programs, nutrition and literacy projects, domestic and family violence recovery, and community connection events. The organisation’s “no closed door” approach ensures every family finds the help they need, reducing isolation, building resilience, safety, and belonging. …Congratulations Home-Start Family Services

LIVEfree Project of Newcastle is changing lives by nurturing, strengthening, and connecting the community. Working across Newcastle’s identified disadvantaged suburbs, LIVEfree Project walks alongside children, young people, and families facing complex challenges such as food insecurity, trauma, and social isolation. Through a range of community-led initiatives, LIVEfree provides practical and emotional support — from mentoring and family assistance to food relief and wellbeing programs — helping people build resilience and rediscover hope. Each person is met with dignity and compassion, ensuring they feel seen, safe, and supported. In partnership with schools, local services, and volunteers, LIVEfree removes barriers to opportunity and creates pathways for long-term change. Recognised as Newcastle’s 2024 Community Group of the Year, LIVEfree Project continues to transform lives, strengthen connection, and empower communities to thrive — changing the generational narrative for good. …. Congratulations LIVEfree Project!

Ooranga Family Mobile Resource Unit Assoc Inc of Gunnedah is bridging the gap for families with limited access to childcare and education. Ooranga Family Mobile Resource Unit Assoc Inc has provided essential early childhood education and family support to rural and geographically isolated communities across northwest NSW for over 40 years. Through mobile preschools, playgroups, and toy library services, Ooranga reaches more than 280 children and their families, travelling over 1,400 kilometres each week to deliver inclusive, high-quality learning experiences. Their programs foster children’s social and emotional development, prepare them for school, and create vital connections between families, educators, and community services. They are supported by dedicated staff and volunteers. …Congratulations Ooranga Family Mobile Resource Unit Assoc Inc

ShoreTrack of Macksville is transforming how regional communities nurture the next generation. Founded in 2020, ShoreTrack supports disengaged youth by providing practical, trade-based learning and holistic wraparound support. Through their social enterprise STeps, young people can gain real-world experience in fencing, fabrication, and landscaping while earning wages and building employable skills. Over 800 young people have participated, with 91% of Certificate II students completing or transitioning into work. ShoreTrack’s partnerships with schools, employers, and community groups have strengthened local economies and fostered youth confidence and belonging. In 2026, they will open Gumma Place, Australia’s first trade-based special assistance school, further expanding educational opportunities. …Congratulations ShoreTrack

The Rural Woman Co-operative Limited empowers women across regional, rural, and remote Australia to “bloom where they are.” The Rural Woman Cooperative (TRWC) was founded in 2014 and restructured as a member-owned cooperative in 2021. Through programs like Thriving Together, BLOOM and the Federal Government’s Digital Solutions Program, TRWC has supported thousands of rural women and more than 2500 small businesses to strengthen digital skills, expand markets, and grow sustainable enterprises. The Cooperative’s innovative model blends training, mentoring, and advocacy, creating economic, social, and leadership opportunities while addressing isolation and inequality. TRWC is ensuring women have the tools, networks, and influence to thrive and shape a more inclusive rural Australia. …Congratulations The Rural Woman Co-operative Limited

 

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Small Business Community Ally Award

Community Migrant Resource Centre of Parramatta is leading the way in building a more equitable, inclusive, and economically resilient multicultural NSW. Established in 1996, Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) is a not-for-profit organisation supporting migrants and refugees to achieve social and economic independence. Through programs like Business Connect and Digital Solutions, CMRC provides culturally responsive, multilingual business advice and mentoring, helping over 1,300 small business clients annually across NSW, including regional areas. Their trusted advisors guide entrepreneurs in business planning, marketing, compliance, and financial literacy, resulting in reduced welfare dependency and thriving enterprises. CMRC champions diversity, women’s empowerment, and social inclusion, fostering stronger, more cohesive communities. …Congratulations Community Migrant Resource Centre

Enterprise & Training Company (ETC) is a leading not-for-profit organisation committed to transforming lives and strengthening communities across NSW and QLD. With over 36 years of experience, ETC delivers impactful employment, training, and business support services. Through programs like Workforce Australia – Self-Employment Assistance, ETC has helped more than 42,000 individuals start or grow their own businesses, providing personalised mentoring, accredited training, and practical tools for success. ETC’s inclusive, community-focused approach supports people from diverse backgrounds, including First Nations peoples, people with disability, and mature-aged workers. ETC’s commitment to community is further demonstrated through the ETC Community Support Fund, which has invested over $3Million into local initiatives that build capacity and generate opportunity.…Congratulations Enterprise & Training Company

FoodLab Sydney of Strathfield South is demonstrating the transformative power of accessible and inclusive community-led entrepreneurship. FoodLab is a not-for-profit culinary business incubator that empowers migrants, refugees, Indigenous Australians, women, and low-income entrepreneurs to start and grow sustainable food ventures. Founded in 2019, FoodLab provides a six-month structured incubator program, mentoring, and affordable access to a shared commercial kitchen. Participants receive practical training in compliance, finance, and marketing, along with ongoing business support. To date, FoodLab has helped launch 19 new trading businesses, created 68 jobs, and delivered over 4,400 hours of training. …Congratulations FoodLab Sydney

Global Sisters of North Curl Curl empowers women to achieve lasting economic security through self-employment. Since 2016, they have supported more than 8,000 women—including 2,463 from NSW and 206 from the ACT—to launch and grow micro businesses across diverse industries. Their programs remove systemic barriers and provide practical, long-term support, while initiatives like the award-winning Impact Roadmap©, mentoring, Sister Pitch, the Back Her Brilliance directory, and their innovative housing project "Little Green Houses for Her" connect women with corporate buyers, growth opportunities, and safe, stable housing. Guided by values of community, equity, and courageous change, Global Sisters is demonstrating that business can be a genuine force for good. …Congratulations, Global Sisters

The Business Centre of Newcastle is championing business owners through change, crisis, and growth. Established in 1986, The Business Centre is a not-for-profit organisation empowering small businesses across NSW and the ACT to start, grow, and thrive. Having supported over 38,000 businesses, it provides confidential, practical advice and training in finance, strategy, digital adoption, and resilience. From helping farms recover from floods to guiding startups and social enterprises toward national expansion, The Business Centre delivers tailored support that drives long-term success. Collaborating with councils, chambers, universities, and Indigenous organisations, it connects entrepreneurs to networks and resources. The Business Centre continues to strengthen local economies and empower communities. …Congratulations The Business Centre

 

Awards Australia Foundation Health and Wellbeing Award

Blue Mountains Safe Space for Suicide Prevention is a community-led, volunteer-run initiative and registered charity providing after-hours, peer-to-peer support for people experiencing suicidal distress. Founded in 2023, the service offers a safe, non-clinical space in Katoomba where guests can connect with trained volunteers who share lived experience, deescalate from crisis, and develop safety plans. Since opening, the Safe Space has welcomed 85 guests, delivered over 30 volunteer training sessions, and held community events engaging more than 200 attendees to raise awareness and reduce stigma around suicide. Its compassionate, human-centred model has diverted individuals from hospital emergency departments. Blue Mountains Safe Space continues to offer hope and healing. …Congratulations Blue Mountains Safe Space

LIVEfree Project of Newcastle is improving the health and wellbeing of children and families facing disadvantage. Through its Smile and Thrive Dental Program, LIVEfree has facilitated over 1,200 free dental appointments and mentoring sessions, helping to address untreated oral disease while providing trauma-informed wellbeing support. Each child is supported by trained workers who help them build coping strategies, understand community safety, and strengthen emotional regulation alongside receiving essential dental care. LIVEfree partners with schools, local dentists, and community organisations to remove barriers such as cost, transport, and fear of care. Teachers and parents have reported improved school attendance, confidence, and behaviour among participating children. By connecting community, care, and compassion, LIVEfree Project empowers children to thrive and builds stronger, more resilient communities…. Congratulations LIVEfree Project!

Orange Push For Palliative of Orange continues to break barriers by providing access to dignified end-of-life care. Founded in 2015, Orange Push for Palliative (OP4P) is a dedicated volunteer group. When the new Orange Hospital opened without any dedicated palliative care beds, OP4P mobilized the community, hosting forums, collecting 10,000 petition signatures, and engaging local, state, and federal leaders. Their advocacy and fundraising efforts have resulted in the creation of five permanent palliative care beds, a family-friendly lounge, and home-like amenities that bring comfort to patients and families. OP4P’s persistence has influenced government policy, secured over $250,000 in donations, and earned recognition through multiple community awards. …Congratulations Orange Push For Palliative

The Haven Team of Penrith is creating lasting pathways to safety and empowerment. Founded in 2018 by Tricia Hitchen and her board, The Haven Team offers refuge and recovery support for women and children escaping domestic violence. They have provided more than 30,000 safe bed nights and continue to deliver trauma-informed, person-centred care, including counselling, legal and financial guidance, and emotional suport. Their innovative Haven Horizons program gives children free access to therapies such as psychology, art, and music therapy, helping them heal, and break cycles of intergenerational trauma. Through school initiatives like Walk The Talk, they also educate young people on respectful relationships and wellbeing. …Congratulations The Haven Team

Wardell Neighbourhood Centre of Wardell exemplifies the power of grassroots action. Wardell Neighbourhood Centre was formed in the wake of the 2022 Northern Rivers floods. Entirely volunteer-led, the Centre delivers trauma-informed counselling, therapeutic horticulture, food relief, and social connection programs that support flood-impacted residents, isolated seniors, and low-income families. They have provided over 2,500 counselling sessions and 3,000 food hampers. Their community events such as Wardell Pizza Nights foster inclusion and belonging. With over 50 active volunteers and a holistic, relationship-based approach, the Centre has improved mental health outcomes, reduced financial stress, and strengthened community resilience. They are recognised through multiple state and national awards. …Congratulations Wardell Neighbourhood Centre

 

Leadership Award

Belinda Leonard of Penrith empowers local women through mental health support and mentorship. As CEO of Noro Music Therapy, Belinda expanded services from 170 to over 2,500 participants weekly, creating sustainable employment and advancing access to evidence-based therapies. Her advocacy secured federal funding, influenced healthcare design, including improvements to the Nepean Emergency Department, and prioritised health literacy across the region. As the first woman appointed to the Panthers Group Board, Belinda has championed gender equity through initiatives such as the proposed $10M Female Centre of Excellence. Belinda founded Walk it Off Women. Her leadership leaves a lasting legacy of inclusion, innovation, and transformational community impact. …Congratulations Belinda

Brad Ambridge of Goonellabah is inspiring broader change in how communities view and support children of all abilities. Brad founded Rainbow Roos, a transformative charity and community hub that’s redefining inclusive sport for children with additional needs across the Northern Rivers. Since launching in 2024, Brad has grown the program from one session to 25 weekly programs, plus school, preschool, and community outreach initiatives. His innovative, non-competitive model focuses on fun, confidence, and wellbeing, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other challenges to build skills, resilience, and friendships. Volunteering over 50 hours a week, Brad ensures all funding supports accessible programs and flood recovery efforts. …Congratulations Brad

Jason Schmidt, Community Development Coordinator at Feros Care, is redefining inclusion for young people with disability. Based in the ACT, he launched seven school based hubs providing on site NDIS support and advocacy, resulting in a 220% increase in student engagement. His partnerships earned the 2024 ACT Public Education Award for Outstanding Partnership. Through co designed employment programs, 135 students have gained hands on trade experience and real work pathways. Jason has also led inclusive sport initiatives like the ACT Sports & Recreation Expo and Blind & Low Vision Tennis Day, and separately serves as President of Blind Cricket ACT.. …Congratulations Jason

Rebecca Holton is reshaping service delivery. Rebecca founded Dom’s Place, a community hub providing meals, showers, laundry, and connection for people experiencing homelessness in Northern Sydney. Starting as a case worker, she identified major service gaps and worked tirelessly to turn her vision into reality—raising funds, developing a business plan, and securing community support. Now Manager of the Specialist Homelessness Service, Rebecca continues to drive systemic change through collaboration, advocacy, and innovation. Her initiatives, including client training programs and partnerships with health and education providers, empower individuals to rebuild confidence and skills. Rebecca’s leadership upholds dignity, amplifies voices, and strengthens community resilience. …Congratulations Rebecca

Sami Sheebo of Coffs Harbour is a passionate Refugee and multicultural Mentor and advocate Yazidi communities in Australia. he has supported hundreds of individuals in rebuilding their lives and integrating successfully into Australian society. As a proud Yazidi community leader, Sami is dedicated to preserving cultural heritage, promoting inclusion, and empowering future generations to stay connected to their identity. Through his mentoring, translation, and advocacy work, he continues to inspire resilience and unity among diverse communities across Australia. …Congratulations Sami

 

Local Legend Award

Bro Support Services - Damien Slockee of Tweed Heads is dedicated to empowering young people with disabilities. Bro Support Services is a community-driven initiative founded by Damien Slockee. Through personalised mentoring, Damien helps participants develop confidence, independence, and essential life skills—achieving milestones such as obtaining a driver’s licence and fostering meaningful social connections. His programs, which include fishing, sport, and self defence, promote physical health, resilience, and self-discipline while reducing social isolation. Families benefit from his compassionate support, gaining reassurance that their children are safe, active, and positively guided. Overcoming challenges, Damien has transformed his life into one of purpose and service, setting an example of leadership and inclusion. …Congratulations Bro Support Services - Damien Slockee

Elvis Danso of Mount Druitt is empowering disengaged young people and strengthening multicultural connections. Through his role at the Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency (MECA), he supports over 820 youth each year via school mentoring, soccer programs, robotics workshops, and cultural exchange initiatives. Elvis founded and led programs such as the Ubuntu Brothers Project and African Health and Careers Expo, providing vital pathways to education, employment, and wellbeing for African-Australian families. Known affectionately as “Uncle Elvis,” his compassion and hands-on leadership inspire confidence, inclusion, and hope in those he mentors. Combining professional excellence with tireless volunteerism, Elvis continues to shape a more inclusive Blacktown community. …Congratulations Elvis

Losalini Manono of The Rocks embodies kindness, service, and humanity. Known to many as “Mama Lo”, Lo is a Guest Relations Manager at Shangri-La Sydney. With over 43 years in hospitality, she has become a cherished leader and mentor known for her genuine care and community spirit. Lo has devoted more than 25,000 volunteer hours to supporting vulnerable women and children in Australia and abroad. She lived at Platform Nine, a Sydney refuge for women escaping domestic violence, and has provided vital aid to orphanages and schools in India, Myanmar, Fiji, and Israel. Her tireless work—spanning food relief, education, and crisis support—has transformed countless lives. …Congratulations Lo

Mona Mahamed of Glen Alpine is helping create pathways to independence for marginalised communities. Mona is the Founder and CEO of Community Support Services Inc (CSS), an organisation supporting vulnerable families across Western Sydney. Under her leadership, CSS delivers over 25 programs each year, assisting more than 13,000 people through education, employment, and wellbeing initiatives. During the pandemic, Mona’s Village Pantry redistributed 265,000kg of food to 50,000 individuals, while her Sew Good Program now teaches women to repurpose fashion items and develop employment skills. A former teacher and mother of six, Mona’s resilience and lifelong learning have driven her to build a thriving community hub. …Congratulations Mona

Olivia Mirza of North Kellyville is a proud migrant, engineer, and community leader whose resilience and vision are transforming Western Sydney. A trailblazer for diversity in STEM, Professor Mirza founded the pioneering Aspire Program to uplift Indigenous, refugee, and disadvantaged students by connecting schools, universities, and industry. Through hands-on STEM learning, mentoring, and cultural empowerment, Aspire has opened pathways to higher education and meaningful careers. Olivia also volunteers countless hours to personally mentor young people, mobilise industry support, and inspire future leaders. Her unwavering dedication has empowered hundreds of students to believe in their potential and pursue brighter futures… Congratulations, Olivia.

 

Small Business Award

Australian Agricultural Centre of Crookwell is empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders. AAC is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to bridging the gap between modern agriculture and community understanding. Founded by Jo Marshall, AAC delivers immersive, curriculum-aligned programs that educate students about sustainable food production, innovation, and career opportunities in agriculture. Its flagship “Astronomical Agriculture” campout program engages schools across New South Wales, fostering curiosity and connection to the land. By partnering with local producers, educators, and businesses, AAC contributes to regional economic growth while promoting environmental awareness and workforce development. Recognised with awards including the Banksia Foundation Sustainability Award, AAC is strengthening rural communities. …Congratulations Australian Agricultural Centre

ketch-Up based out of Parramatta is creating real-world connections and fostering inclusivity. ketch-Up is a digital platform helping women across Sydney forge meaningful friendships and overcome social isolation. Founded in 2024, it organises curated meetups in small groups at local cafes and restaurants, connecting women of all ages and backgrounds in a safe, welcoming space. Since launch, ketch-Up has hosted over 30 meetups and grown organically to a community of 400+ women. The startup was incubated at Western Sydney University’s Launchpad, where it won the Best Pitch Award and $10,000 in funding, and has since been recognised in multiple pitch competitions and award programs. …Congratulations ketch-Up

Macquarie Home Stay of Dubbo (MHS) is committed to transforming regional healthcare access and wellbeing. MHS is a not-for-profit accommodation facility that supports patients and families from across rural and regional NSW who travel for medical treatment. Entirely self-funded, MHS reduces the emotional and financial strain of accessing healthcare by offering affordable, compassionate accommodation. Since opening, MHS has hosted over 13,000 bed nights annually, raised more than $600,000 through community fundraising, and engaged over 300 volunteers through programs like Friends of MHS and its guest concierge service. Their 2025 completion of the CWA of NSW Guesthouse, a 26-room facility supporting cancer patients, earned a Master Builders Association Award. …Congratulations Macquarie Home Stay

Missy's Magic Styles of Macgregor has an extraordinary commitment to dignity, kindness, and inclusive care. Founded by Missy, a hairdresser living with special needs and communication dyslexia, is a mobile salon dedicated to helping vulnerable community members. Missy donates hundreds of hours each year providing free or discounted haircuts for palliative care clients, people with disability, DV survivors, foster children, and the elderly. Missy also serves as a community connector, linking families with over 200 small businesses. Her compassion-driven approach has made her a trusted figure in Canberra’s healthcare and community sectors. Missy has been recognised with the 2024 Women Changing the World Bronze Award. …Congratulations Missy's Magic Styles

The F.O.C.K.: Festival of Canoe and Kayak of Kangaroo Valley is dedicated to upholding community spirit. The F.O.C.K. is a premier recreational paddling event, held annually in the Canoeing Capital of Australia. Created after devastating floods to support regional recovery, the free, family-friendly festival promotes inclusive participation, safe and sustainable paddling, and respect for Aboriginal culture through partnerships with local Indigenous educators like Gadhungal Marring. Funded primarily by local business owners Travis and Sarah Frenay, with additional community and government support, the event has strengthened regional tourism, attracted new visitors, and built valuable partnerships, including with Take 3 for the Sea. The F.O.C.K. unites paddlers and nature enthusiasts from all backgrounds. …Congratulations The F.O.C.K.: Festival of Canoe and Kayak