Recognising the achievements of individuals and groups for their outstanding contribution to the local community, Central Coast Council will soon open nominations for the 2019 Central Coast Australia Day Awards.

The Coast-wide Australia Day Awards last year saw close to 70 nominations, with Kate Broadhurst being named the 2018 Central Coast Citizen of the Year for her work developing a surf program for children with additional needs.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said the prestigious Australia Day Awards honour locals who are leaders in the community, or who work quietly behind the scenes, to make the Central Coast a great place to live.

“Australia Day is a celebration of our diversity, our values, our national achievements and our hopes for the future. It is also a special day for the Coast community as we reflect on our history, our heritage and our people.” Ms Vaughan said.

“The Australia Day Awards are an integral part of our Australia Day celebrations as we honour our local unsung heroes and shine the light on their contributions to creating a better Central Coast.

“Nominations open on Monday, 17 September and close Friday, 2 November 2018 and I encourage everyone to nominate someone they know who is worthy for one of these prestigious awards and the chance to be named the Central Coast Citizen of the Year.”

2019 Award categories include:

Arts, Culture and Entertainment

Awarded to an individual who has demonstrated excellence in their chosen art form and made a significant contribution to arts, culture and entertainment on the Coast.

Business Connecting Communities

Awarded to a local business or enterprise with less than eight fulltime employees that has established a genuine involvement and long-term value to the life of their community.

Community Service and Activity

Awarded to an individual or group responsible for creating community activities or services that benefit the Coast.

Volunteer of the Year

Awarded to an individual (26 years and over) who has made a significant long-term commitment to volunteer work and demonstrated outstanding service and dedication to our local community.

Environmental

Awarded to an individual who is leading the way in sustainability and making the Central Coast a place where people and nature can thrive.

Sportsperson of the Year

Awarded to an individual who has shown acts of sportsmanship and team building, been an outstanding sportsperson or made significant contributions as organisers or promoters of sports on the Coast.

Youth of the Year

Awarded to an individual (25 years or under) who has succeeded in his or her chosen field, acts as an inspiration to his or her peers and has made a significant contribution to the Coast community.

Each winner from the above categories will then go into the running to be named Central Coast Citizen of the Year.

For further information, nomination eligibility criteria or to nominate someone you know visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/australiadayawards