Bellingen honours local heroes and achievements

THE Bellingen Shire’s 2026 Community Awards were marked by a night of celebration, connection and recognition.  

Held on Friday in the Bellingen Memorial Hall, the event was hosted by Mayor Steve Allan who also welcomed new Australian citizens to the community.

Guests and nominees were treated to a performance from local rising star Teale Kelly-Wright, along with the band KT, Memo & Otis, and Georgie Chorley.

Willa Herron, the 2025 Bellingen Shire Young Citizen of the Year, emceed the awards.

“These are the highest awards we have in our community, and you are among the chosen few because you have made the decision to “Do” — to step in and make a difference,” said Mayor Allan.

“The work you do, whether through volunteering, mentoring, advocacy, creativity or leadership, genuinely changes lives.”

Citizen Of the Year Susan Lumsdaine. As President of the Bellingen Show for the past three years, Susan has helped make the show more inclusive, sustainable and accessible while continuing to honour its strong agricultural roots. She is also involved with the Bellingen RSL and the Bellingen Music Association.

Young Citizen of the Year Myra Sibanda. Myra has shown compassionate leadership, serving as School Captain and DOVES council representative, and contributing through volunteering, fundraising, music, and sport.

Home Grown Heroes Award Judy Henderson. The award recognises Judy’s lifelong dedication as a paediatrician, humanitarian, and Repton RFS leader.

Sport and Recreation Award Urunga Parkrun.

Arts and Culture Award Annie Phelan (Individual) and Budaabung Bari Dance (Group)

Environment and Sustainability Award Liz Brown – for her dedication as a volunteer with Bellingen Landcare and Bellingen Urban Landcare.

Community Impact Business Award Meghan and Ben Garnock from the Dorrigo Butcher and Dorrigo Deli.

Citations and photos of all the winners, along with the full list of nominees, can be found on Council’s website.