Nominations are now open to recognise the amazing work of members of the community, events and groups for their contribution to our community.

The annual awards pay tribute to the special people in our community who have gone above and beyond to help improve the lives of others and leave a positive imprint on our community.

We spoke to this year’s winner Rachel Jackson who was awarded Citizen of the Year to find out what amazing work she has done and continues to do in our community.

What did you think when you received Citizen of the Year?

When I first received the news, I was excited, but also in disbelief. I’m just an everyday girl doing my thing!

How did it come about? Who nominated you?

A local historian who has lived on the beaches for over 70 years nominated me. She said she had never in all her years living on the Northern Beaches seen anyone as unique as me and what I do for others.  She has a terminal illness and didn’t want to be named but said it was the last thing she wanted to do is see me acknowledged for the work I do. I was so humbled.

What are some of the projects you worked on that were included in your nomination?

I’ve implemented a lot of community projects. I have worked on rehoming people and helping women escape domestic violence. Yearly, through the Lions Club I run an event to raise $20,000 for kids with cancer. 

I am also a disability and aged cared advocate. I believe that each one of us in our community can play a valuable part to help those who are less fortunate or have no family support. I also deliver weekly meals to cancer patients, and people within social housing.

How have you made a difference to the community?

I’ve hopefully made a difference by supporting people, providing help with accommodation, food delivery, and believing them. When people have been through trauma they often have lost all hope and sometimes it takes just one person to listen and implement change to make a difference in a world that often ignores the disadvantaged in life.

What would you say to encourage people in the community to nominate someone? How will it change their life?

Nominate someone who’s different, who goes unnoticed, who believes in what they do and follows through with what they say. Nominate someone who empowers others and brings new fresh ideas and insights to the community. Together even without funding, anyone can make a difference.

This year an additional category has been introduced - Community Group of the Year and for the first time ever the Outstanding Achievement Award is open to non-Australian Citizens.

The seven award categories include:

• Citizen of the Year
• Senior Citizen of the Year (65 years or older)
• Young Citizen of the Year (under 25 years)
• Outstanding Community Service
• Sportsperson of the Year
• Community Event of the Year
• Community Group of the Year

Nominations close Monday 30 October 2023. The awards ceremony will be held on the 25 January 2024.

For more information, and to submit a nomination visit our website.