We know that volunteering takes a special kind of person – it requires a significant commitment of time, energy and compassion. The Community Awards will recognise those individuals who consistently put others before themselves, making a lasting difference to the lives of people across our community.
The Community Awards are an initiative of The Shellharbour Club designed to recognise the volunteers, community groups and sporting organisations whose passion, generosity and commitment have a lasting impact on the Shellharbour community. From the quiet achievers working behind the scenes to the local champions inspiring positive change, these awards shine a light on the people who help our community thrive.
AWARD CATEGORIES:
Commitment Award
Unsung Hero Award
Community Organisation of the Year Award
Volunteer of the Year Award
NOMINATIONS:
Nominations open on Monday 3rd August 2026 from 10am and close on Monday 31st August 2026 at 5pm. All nominations must be submitted online.
As a proud community partner, The Shellharbour Club’s vision is “to enable our community to reach its highest potential” so we ask you to nominate those individuals and organisations who propel the community to its highest potential. Together, we’re recognising those who make a difference – because when our community succeeds, we all succeed.
Long-standing dedication and commitment. Recognising the contribution of individuals with over five years of service who have made a lasting and significant contribution to the organisation and its community.
Got someone in mind?
Behind the scenes but not unnoticed. Recognising the contribution of individuals who may not hold an official title or not receive the acknowledgment they deserve on a regular basis but consistently give their time, effort and energy to the organisation.
Know someone who deserves more recognition?
Leaps and bounds. Recognising community organisations that have made an exceptional impact over the past year.
Love your organisation’s work?
The big one. Recognising the contribution of individuals whose ongoing dedication and unwavering commitment has made a significant and lasting contribution to a community organisation. Three finalists announced. One winner.
The winner will be peer-voted at the Community Awards Celebratory Event.
NB: To be eligible for nomination in the ‘Volunteer of the Year’ category, your organisation or an individual from your organisation must also be nominated for a minimum of 1 x other award category.
Know someone worthy of the big gong?
When will submissions open?
Submissions open on Monday 3rd August from 10am and close on Monday 31st August at 5pm. Only finalised and complete submissions will be accepted.
Who can I nominate?
Local community organisations are encouraged to nominate members of their community organisation – anyone the committee believes worthy of recognition. Is your treasurer going above and beyond? Has the linesperson been helping out elsewhere also? Does your president work well outside what’s expected. Did your organisation achieve a tonne this year?
Check out our awards categories to find the best fit category and apply.
Nominees must be:
Please keep in mind that community groups may self-nominate however individuals are not permitted to self-nominate.
Don’t forget to check out our T&Cs for more information.
Can I nominate my own organisation?
Yes, of course! We strongly encourage you to sing the praises on behalf of your own organisation. Let’s tell the whole community about the great job your committee is doing!
What’s involved in the nomination process?
We know that volunteers’ time is limited so we’ve ensured the nomination process is super simple! To nominate, simply jump online and answer 4-5 short answer questions plus upload two relevant photographs per application.
Can I stop and start the nomination?
Yes, you will have the ability to save as you go – just in case you cannot complete the nomination in one sitting.
How will finalists be notified of their finalist status?
Finalists will be notified via email and will be invited to attend the Community Awards Celebratory Event. Please ensure the email address provided is accurate.
Who judges the awards?
A community judging panel will meet to assess the applications and determine a winner in the following categories – Commitment Award, Unsung Hero Award and Community Organisation of the Year.
The judging panel will not determine the winner of the Volunteer of the Year Award. The judging panel will determine 3 x finalists for the Volunteer of the Year Award with the winner being determined at the Community Awards Celebratory Event via peer-vote.
When will the winners be announced?
Winners will be announced at the Community Awards Celebratory Event taking place at The Shellharbour Club on Wednesday 14th October from 6pm. All finalists will be invited to attend the event. The event will be by invitation only.
All finalists and applicable community organisations will be invited to attend the Community Awards Celebratory Event as a thank you to your efforts and to celebrate the winners! The event will be by invite-only.
Date: Wed 14th October
Time: 6pm – 8.30pm
Location: The Shellharbour Club
