So many well-deserving and impressive members of our community have been honoured this weekend with Australia Day Awards. Here’s the list:
Each year on the Australia Day long weekend Northern Beaches Council recognises community members and organisations that contribute to improving the amazing place we live in. While the recipients do not expect recognition and are humble about their efforts; these awards go a little way to thank these selfless people and organisations.
This year’s recipients have saved lives, raised money for lifesaving and emergency services, promoted fitness and continually encouraged community spirit.
Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said all nominees and the award recipients were impressive.
“This year we received so many deserving nominations which only emphasises the amazing accomplishments of this year’s recipients. There is no doubt we have some extraordinary people on the Northern Beaches. Every year I am amazed by the committed and passionate people that surround us. Each is being recognised for their major contribution to our community through volunteering their time, experience, leadership and dedication to others.
“We heartily congratulate this year’s award recipients and thank those who took the time to nominate and recognise them,” Mayor Heins said.
Citizen of the Year 2025: Kevin Lee of Belrose
Kevin has devoted many hours to the Narrabeen Beach Surf Life Saving Club through beach patrols, various positions within the Club and educating other members. He is also the co-convenor of the Narrabeen Beach Challenge Ocean Swim and has organised numerous beach carnivals. Kevin devotes countless hours to his passion for the sea and keeping the public safe.
Senior Citizen of the Year 2025: Ian Hocking of Bilgola Plateau
Ian is a dedicated volunteer and leader at NSW SES Warringah Pittwater unit. As the Deputy Unit Commander, Ian conducts staff training, fosters a culture of readiness and professionalism. His selfless dedication ensures residents receive swift and effective support during emergencies.
Young Citizen of the Year 2025: Saskia Rundle Trowbridge of Narrabeen
In 2024 Saskia braved perilous conditions below Warriewood headland to rescued 3 youths. Showing remarkable composure, leadership and quick thinking to organise her I.R.B crew while she jumped in the swirling ocean to swim the youths to the boat and back to the beach for first aid and saving their lives.
Sportsperson of the Year 2025: Chris Turnbull of Clontarf
Chris has run himself into the Guinness World Records with the fastest journey on foot across Australia, from Perth to Sydney. He completed the 3,865 kilometre journey in 39 days, 8 hours and 1 minute, beating the previous record by 4 days. During the run Chris delivered motivational talks for local groups and running clubs. He continues to promote an active and healthy lifestyle and a willingness to assist others with their sporting endeavours.
Community Event of the Year 2025: Carols by the Lake – The Link Church
The annual favourite, Carols by the Lake has been operating for 20 years. Organised by The Link Church, each year the event attracts around 10,000 locals to celebrate the festive spirit. The audience is encouraged to donate to the Link Community Care’s essential programs including funding food relief and emergency support for the local community.
Community Group of the Year 2025: Lifeline Northern Beaches Book Fair Volunteers
Locals flock to Lifelines’ renowned Book Fairs but few think of the countless hours the 100 dedicated volunteers contribute to ensuring the success of these popular fundraisers. It takes many months to collect, sort and price books, DVDs, CDs, and games for the events. Each Fair raises significant funds for the vital mental health and crisis services Lifeline provides to our community.
Outstanding Community Service Awards 2025
Nicholas Chambers – Cromer – Nicholas has shown great leadership at Cromer Cricket Club and through his enthusiasm for the game he has increased the junior participation. He organises and runs “Come & Try” events and fosters teamwork, inclusion and sportsmanship.
Roland Davies – North Manly – Through his organisation, Emu Parade, Roland has dedicated his time to environmental conservation. Roland has hosted over 60 clean-up events from Shelly Beach to Palm Beach attracting over 2000 participants.
Bruce Davis – Curl Curl – Bruce loves everything to do with sailing. His passion and leadership have been of great benefit to Manly Yacht Club. The junior program is now thriving and continues its significant involvement with Sailability (sailing with a disability) thanks to Bruce.
Vipul Jajal – Dee Why – A meditation trainer, Vipul has offered over 100 free in-person and 250 online meditation sessions in the last 12 months focusing on mental health, stress reduction and holistic wellness.
Laurelei Moore and sister, Gay McLindin – Dee Why – These identical twins rise early every morning to clear Dee Why beachfront of dangerous refuse like plastic, fishing lines and food scraps ensuring a safer environment for beachgoers and local wildlife.
Leanne Shanahan – Warriewood – Since 2018 Leanne has facilitated a monthly support group in Narrabeen for parents and siblings who have lost a child. Leanne has created a space for families to grieve together and gain hope for the future.
Mel Thomas – Clontarf – Mel is passionate about preventing domestic violence, delivering mums and daughter workshops in Dee Why attracting over 100 participants. She has also raised over $100,000 enabling her to provide free self-defence workshops in local schools.
Congratulations and thank you to all the recipients!
All images credited ©-Karen-Watson
