Nominations are now open for the 2026 New England–Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year Awards, with communities urged to recognise the people who quietly keep the region running.
The regional awards form part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, now in their 20th year and one of the largest celebrations of volunteering in Australia.
Locals are being encouraged to nominate friends, family members, colleagues or community members whose efforts often go unnoticed but make a lasting impact.
The awards recognise volunteers across seven categories, with regional winners going on to represent the New England–Northern Inland at the state gala ceremony later this year.
Last year, our region took out the state title, with Moree SES volunteer Kamala Wheeler named the 2025 NSW Adult Volunteer of the Year.
CEO of The Centre for Volunteering Gemma Rygate said the awards highlight the extraordinary contribution volunteers make.
“Volunteers in NSW do so much good, for so many people every year,” she said.
“Now, more than ever, we need to shine a light on the positive impact of volunteering, particularly in areas like the New England and Northern Inland regions of NSW. That’s what these awards are all about.”
Minister for Volunteering Jodie Harrison said volunteers were essential to communities across the state.
“Our state would not be the thriving place it is, without the millions of volunteers giving their time and sharing their knowledge and skills every day,” she said.
“They don’t do it for recognition or awards, but because they want to help others.”
Last year’s regional winner, Moree SES volunteer Kamala Wheeler, was recognised for more than four decades of service supporting her community through emergencies and training.
Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said volunteers in that sector deserved particular recognition.
“Every day across NSW, emergency service volunteers quietly step up for their communities without being asked, and without expecting recognition,” he said.
Alongside the regional awards, councils across the New England and North West are also running local volunteer recognition programs as part of National Volunteers Week, which will be held from 18 to 24 May.
In Tamworth, nominations are open across multiple categories including youth, senior, emergency and volunteer team awards, with winners to be announced during a community celebration at Bicentennial Park on 23 May.
Tamworth Regional Council Volunteer Services Officer Elissa Wesche said recognising volunteers helps strengthen communities.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our community. Taking the time to recognise their efforts not only shows our appreciation but also helps inspire others to step forward and make a difference,” she said.
Similar calls for nominations are underway in Narrabri and Armidale, with councils encouraging residents to put forward the “quiet achievers” who make a difference behind the scenes.
Nominations for the New England–Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year Awards are open until Friday 29 May 2026 at this link. Check your local council’s website for local closing dates and details.
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