Benalla Rural City will celebrate the achievements of exceptional individuals, groups and events at the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony on Monday, January 26, at the Benalla Lakeside Community Centre.
Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn said the nominations reflected the dedication and spirit that made Benalla Rural City a vibrant and connected community.
“These awards acknowledge the people and groups who go above and beyond to make a difference. Their commitment strengthens our community and inspires others to get involved.”
2026 Australia Day award nominees
Citizen of the Year:
- Max Howard
- Laura Nelson
- David Risk
- Tyler Brodie
- Dan and Margaret Zaal
- Gavin Perry
- Russell Ellis
- Amelia Gall
- Brett Glazebrook
- Sue Pendergast
Young Citizen of the Year:
Community Group of the Year:
- For the Good of Devenish
- Devenish Market
- Yarnbombers
- Benalla All Abilities Football
Community Event or Project of the Year:
- Inflatable Animal Race
- T-Bro's Movember
- Luna New Year
- Devenish Market
The awards will be presented during the official program, which also includes a Citizenship Ceremony, entertainment and lunch catered by Goldhammer Catering.
Australia Day events across Benalla Rural City
- Community Breakfast: 9am outside the Visitor Information Centre, Mair St, Benalla.
- Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony: 11.30am at Benalla Lakeside Community Centre.
- Rural township events: In Baddaginnie, Goorambat, Tatong, Thoona, Molyullah, Warrenbayne, Devenish, Lima and Goomalibee.
- Benalla Cinema: Free screening of Kangaroo (PG) at 2pm.
Tickets for the awards and citizenship ceremony are free, but booking is essential, via events.humanitix.com/2026-benalla-australia-day-and-citizenship-ceremony
