Community encouraged to nominate for 2026 Australia Day Awards
Published on 31 October 2025
Singleton’s unsung heroes and rising stars are set to be celebrated once again, with nominations now open for the 2026 Singleton Citizen of the Year and Young Achiever of the Year Awards.
From 31 October to 28 November 2025, community members are encouraged to nominate locals who go above and beyond, continuing a proud tradition of recognising extraordinary contributions to the Singleton community.
Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore, said the awards shine a light on people whose service, dedication and passion might otherwise go unnoticed.
“Our community is filled with people who give so much of themselves – whether through volunteering, professional service, mentoring, or simply going the extra mile for others. The Australia Day Awards are our chance to say thank you and celebrate them publicly,” Cr Moore said.
“All residents of the Singleton local government area are eligible to nominate, so if you know someone who quietly makes Singleton a better place every day, I wholeheartedly encourage you to put their name forward.”
Singleton’s 2025 Citizen of the Year, Paramedic Nigel Korff, exemplifies that spirit. A paramedic and NSW Rural Fire Service volunteer for nearly four decades, Nigel has contributed to countless emergency responses, including life-saving helicopter rescues during the Lismore and Eugowra flood events. Likewise, 2025 Young Achiever of the Year, Dr Jared Lawrence represents the future of Singleton. A graduate doctor and former student of Singleton High School, Jared is committed to rural health and mentors local students to pursue careers in health and lead healthier lives.
Mr Korff said being recognised as the 2025 Singleton Citizen of the Year was both humbling and uplifting for someone who has dedicated most of his life to the service of others.
“Being named Citizen of the Year was a big surprise, but also a real privilege,” Mr Korff said.
“It’s very validating for volunteers — a reminder that what we do matters and that people see the effort behind the scenes. There are so many people in our community doing incredible things and these awards are a great way to shine a light on them.”
Nominations for the 2026 Singleton Australia Day Awards close on 28 November 2025. Criteria and nomination forms are available online at www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/AustraliaDayAwards.
Winners will be announced at Singleton’s official Australia Day ceremony on 26 January 2026, following on from Twilight, Council’s annual sunset community event at Townhead Park and the perfect way to celebrate community spirit leading into Australia Day.
ENDS