NOMINATIONS are open for the two categories of 2026 Sawtellian and Young Sawtellian of the Year.
Sawtell Chamber of Commerce Fun Day convenor Keith Bensley, said any person, club, school or organisation can nominate up to two people they consider worthy of recognition.
“Anyone who has made an outstanding contribution specifically to the Sawtell community can be nominated for recognition,” Mr Bensley said.
Sawtellian of the Year has been running for many years and will be announced at noon on New Year’s Day 2026 at the 106th Sawtell Super Fun Day, held on the Village Green at Sawtell Beach Holiday Park.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh will present the awards.
No nominations were received for the 2025 Young Sawtellian of the Year, introduced in 2021, but Mr Bensley trusts that some of the many young local achievers will be nominated for recognition in 2026.
Anyone up to the age of 18, as at 31 December 2025, and who has made a significant contribution to the Sawtell community, is eligible for nomination.
Popular local pharmacist Robert Van Wyk was the 2025 Sawtellian of the Year for ensuring healthcare is accessible to the whole community including the vulnerable, disadvantaged, elderly and those with limited mobility.
“Nominating someone is easy, simply drop us an email to sawtellfunday@gmail.com and we will send you a nomination form for you to complete and return to us,” he said.
“Be sure to give your nominee a good and detailed resume and reference because what you write has to convince the judges.”
Nominations close on 30 November 2025, with judging by secret ballot. For more information, contact Keith on 0438 269 210.
By Andrea FERRARI
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