The community spirit and tireless hard work of volunteers, stalwarts and heroes across Moira Shire was celebrated at the annual Australia Day Awards on January 26.

Held as part of local town events on Australia Day, the awards recognise people of all ages who go above and beyond to support and improve their communities.

The awards also recognise significant community events, which this year includes anniversary celebrations for three towns or districts during 2025.

Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson said these awards recognised the unsung heroes of our communities.

“They’re the backbone of our towns and districts, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make their communities a better place to live,” Dr Emonson said.

“These people and projects reflect the strength and community spirit of Moira Shire.”

Moira Shire Australia Day award winners 2026

Nathalia

Citizen of the Year: Colin and Gail Grinter (joint award)

Community Event: Kaarimba Public Hall 125th Anniversary and Nathalia Agricultural Show Society

Community Organisation: Kaarimba Public Hall Committee

Arts/Culture/Environment Project: Kaarimba Public Hall

Cobram

Citizen of the Year: Elaine Cartwright

Young Citizen: Taylar Knight

Junior Citizen: Abbie Milne

Community Event: Melbourne Lexus Cup Tour — Cobram Lions Club

Community Organisation: Cobram SES

Numurkah

Citizen of the Year: John Decker, Jenny Cossens (dual winners)

Community Event: Numurkah and District Historical Society 150th Year Anniversary

Community Organisation: Women of the Murray

Arts/Culture/Environment Project: Numurkah and District Historical Society Tungamah/St James

Tungamah/St James

Citizen of the Year: Pamela O’Dwyer, Dianne Sampson (dual winners)

Community Event: Tungamah 150th Year Anniversary Event Yarrawonga

Yarrawonga

Citizen of the Year: Amanda Wheaton

Young Citizen: Dimity Connell

Junior Citizen: Charlie Whinray

Community Event: Yarrawonga Mulwala Business and Tourism - Powerboat Spectacular Event

Community Organisation: Yarrawonga Mulwala Basketball Association

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