Citizen Awards Announced and New Australian Citizens Welcomed
Published on 29 January 2026
A large crowd gathered at Botanic Park on Australia Day to celebrate the announcement of the Shire’s Citizen Awards, recognising outstanding individuals and groups for their exceptional contributions to the community.
Seven Shire residents were also formally welcomed as new Australian citizens during the Citizenship Ceremony conducted by Mayor Cr Steve Rabie. They joined more than 18,800 people from over 150 countries who became Australian citizens at more than 325 ceremonies held nationwide on Australia Day.
Citizen Awards were presented across five categories:
- Pamela Dalgleish, Senior Citizen of the Year
- David Mims, Citizen of the Year
- Jessica Andrews, Young Citizen of the Year
- Mansfield Agricultural and Pastoral Show, Community Event of the Year
- Mansfield and District (MAD) Potters, Community Group or Organisation
Mayor Rabie congratulated all award recipients and nominees, commending their dedication, commitment, and the positive impact they have made within the community.
“We are fortunate to have so many individuals and groups who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others,” said Mayor Rabie.
“In many cases, this service spans many years. Our Shire would not be as strong or vibrant without their efforts.”
“These awards are our way of expressing appreciation and gratitude to those who generously volunteer their time, skills, and expertise across a wide range of activities, often without expectation of recognition,” the Mayor said.
Award winners were selected by the Australia Day Awards judging panel, chaired by the Mayor, Deputy Mayor Cr James Tehan, Cr. Mandy Treasure, last year’s Award winners, Ian Mallyon, Citizen, Graeme Stoney, Senior Citizen and Ella Crathern, Young Citizen.
As part of the Australia Day celebrations, seven residents from five nations (the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Fiji, Germany, and Canada) were welcomed as Australia’s newest citizens, reflecting the Shire’s growing diversity and multicultural identity.
Australian citizenship ceremonies are a significant part of Australia Day celebrations, with more people becoming citizens on this day than any other throughout the year. New citizens join a special group of Australians who commemorate the anniversary of their citizenship each Australia Day.
Further details about all our award winners and the nominees are available on Council’s website – mansfield.vic.gov.au