Nominations for the inaugural Central Coast Council 2017 Australia Day Awards are now open.

These awards are open to anyone from across the Central Coast for the chance to be named the first ever Central Coast Citizen of the Year.

The awards span seven categories and are designed to showcase locals who have shown outstanding dedication to their community, their workplace, arts, culture or sport.

Council’s Acting Group Leader Customer and Community Relationships, Ms Julie Vaughan, is encouraging the community to get involved.

“We all know someone who is at the local sports ground rain, hail or shine, or a leading local business entrepreneur. Maybe they volunteer for a local charity or community group, or are a leader of young people in our community,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Often this work goes unrecognised and these Awards are about changing that!

“We are encouraging everyone to nominate someone they know who may be worthy of this prestigious honour.”

The categories for the Central Coast awards include:

• Arts, Culture and Entertainment
• Business Connecting Communities
• Community Service and Activity
• Volunteer of the Year
• Environmental
• Sportsperson of the Year
• Youth of the Year

The Citizen of the Year will be selected from one of the winners of the categories and will display the highest level of skill, talent and service in their chosen field and act as a role model across all facets of the broader community.

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the awards recognise and celebrate the Coast’s great community spirit.

“We want to recognise both the leaders in our community as well as those who work hard every day behind the scenes to make our region such a great place to live,” Mr Reynolds said.

“If you know any unsung heroes who dedicate their time and energy to make the Central Coast a better place, now is the time to make sure they are rewarded for their efforts by nominating them for an award.”

To be eligible, applicants must be an Australian Citizen and live in the Central Coast Local Government Area.

Nominations must be received by 5pm, Friday 25 November 2016. For a full list of eligibility requirements and nominate online, visit our website, centralcoast.nsw.gov.au