NEW SOUTH WALES

Community Achievement Awards for NSW & the ACT

2024 Winners

All Winners on stage

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

Small Business Debt Helpline is empowering business owners to make informed decisions and regain control of their finances. Since its inception in 2020, the Small Business Debt Helpline has assisted over 4,270 small businesses in NSW and ACT experiencing financial distress. Originally launched to support businesses affected by bushfires, the Helpline now provides free, independent, and confidential financial counselling to any small business facing financial difficulty. The Helpline offers immediate, direct access to qualified financial counsellors who provide practical advice and emotional support. Their service has helped business owners find solutions, develop recovery plans, or consider closing down.

Winner Small Business Debt Helpline (left) and Dr Matthew Steen, Executive Director, Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (right)

Awards Australia Community Group Award

Launched in 2022 in Sydney, With You We Can wants better responses to sexual violence. Founded by Sarah Rosenberg, With You We Can is the country’s first victim-led collaborative resource hub, designed to address the profound lack of information available to victims of sexual violence navigating the justice system, and the public misconceptions around its functioning that make the process even harder. Uniting experts, advocates and frontline services, With You We Can supports 270 users monthly to access resources that enhance their knowledge of justice, safety and healing options. With You We Can continues to make a difference as Sarah turns to spearheading the organisation’s advocacy work.

Winner With You We Can (left) and Josh Griffin, General Manager, Awards Australia (right)

Awards Australia Foundation Local Legend Award

Mahmoud Kaskeen of Banksia is providing hope and stability. Originally from Gaza, Mahmoud has led efforts to support displaced Gazans arriving in Australia. He established the Gaza Australian Program, which played a crucial role in coordinating housing, financial assistance, and settlement support for over 460 people, many of whom faced imminent homelessness. Using more than $150,000 of his own savings, Mahmoud funded emergency evacuations and housing for families in need. His collaborations with non-profits ensured displaced Gazans received vital resources, while his tireless advocacy brought attention to their unique challenges. Mahmoud's selfless volunteer efforts have profoundly shaped the lives of the Australian Gazan community.

Winner Mahmoud Kaskeen (left) and Louise Azzopardi, Life Coach and Speaker, Louise Azzopardi Coaching (right)

Konica Minolta Customer Service Award

RESINC Solar of Wyong is a social enterprise dedicated to residential and small commercial solar installations along the Eastern Seaboard. Founded by Leigh Storr, who brings 20 years of renewable energy expertise, the company has transformed over 150,000 homes, saving customers approximately $16 million in grid energy costs annually. RESINC ensures customers maximise their solar benefits. Their community impact includes over $750,000 in solar installations for local surf clubs and global initiatives to provide renewable energy solutions to underprivileged populations. With over 3,500 five-star reviews, RESINC has earned the title of "#1 Most Popular Solar Installer" and "#1 All-Star Solar Company" at the SunWiz Awards.

Winner RESINC Solar (left) and Andrew Ward, NSW Sales Manager, Commercial and Indirect, Konica Minolta (right)

NSW Government Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award

Tweed Shire Council has transformed Jack Evans Boat Harbour in Tweed Heads into a bustling recreational and tourism hub. With features like an inclusive playspace, youth recreation area, and picnic precinct, the revitalised space accommodates various activities, enhancing accessibility for all community members. Recent initiatives have strengthened community connections and encouraged social engagement. Spanning 11 hectares of inclusive urban parkland, the Harbour serves as a gathering place for families, promoting intergenerational fun and outdoor activity while celebrating Tweed’s unique river city character. By prioritising sustainable practices and community input, the Council has created a welcoming environment that fosters health, social inclusion, and vibrant local culture.

Winner Tweed Shire Council for Jack Evans Boat Harbour represented by Kiersten Fishburn (left), Secretary, Dept of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure and Melanie Hawyes, Deputy Secretary, Crown Lands and Public Spaces (centre) with Rachel Reid from Awards Australia

NSW Government Crown Land Management Excellence Award

Calarie Recreation Reserve Land Manager is the dedicated volunteer committee that works tirelessly to improve facilities of the Calarie Recreation Reserve for the local communities of Forbes. The reserve serves as a versatile venue, hosting weddings, community meetings, and youth programs like “Boys to the Bush,” while also functioning as an evacuation centre. Recent upgrades, including solar panels to reduce costs and fully accessible restrooms, have significantly enhanced the venue’s usability. Through effective fundraising, social media promotion, and word-of-mouth, the committee attracts diverse community members to utilise the hall. Their commitment to creating a welcoming and functional space fosters connections, ensuring Calarie Recreation Reserve remains a central hub for support and community engagement.

Winner Calarie Recreation Reserve Land Manager board members with Kiersten Fishburn (far left), Secretary, Dept of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Melanie Hawyes, Deputy Secretary, Crown Lands and Public Spaces (2nd from the left) and The Hon. Stephen Kamper, MP. Minister for Lands and Property (far right)

NSW Government Individual Excellence in Crown Land Management Award

June Dangar of Armidale, current Treasurer of the Armidale Showground Reserve Land Manager board is committed to preserving the heritage of the Armidale Showground. June plays a crucial role in the efficient management of the whole facility and also encourages community involvement. As a volunteer Board member she is involved in proactively overseeing strategic management and ensuring high maintenance standards. Whilst Board chairperson, June was instrumental in having significant improvements carried out, including the restoration of both historic grandstands. She has been instrumental in increasing community involvement, through the updating of the Showground website. She is dedicated to enhancing social interaction and community spirit.

Winner June Dangar (centre) with The Hon. Stephen Kamper, MP. Minister for Lands and Property and Melanie Hawyes, Deputy Secretary, Crown Lands and Public Spaces

Synaco by Synergie Safety Award

Cycle Safe Bathurst of Bathurst is committed to transforming Bathurst into a safe haven for cyclists. Inspired by the tragic death of a local cyclist, Cycle Safe is a not-for-profit organisation that collaborates with community and government stakeholders to enhance cycling infrastructure and promote a culture of safe road use. Their impactful “Look Out at Roundabouts!” campaign has engaged over 420,000 accounts, raising awareness about cycling safety. By educating drivers and cyclists about navigating roundabouts, they aim to significantly reduce accidents. Their evidence-based approach benefits all road users, including motorists and pedestrians, fostering a culture of mindfulness and shared responsibility towards a safer Bathurst.

Winner Cycle Safe Bathurst of Bathurst (right) and Brigid Fleming, General Manager of IPA by Synergie (left)

People's Choice Award

Winner Mahmoud Kaskeen (left) and Hugh Whitfield, 7NEWS Presenter (right)