Benalla Rural City will celebrate the achievements of exceptional individuals, groups, and events at the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony on Monday 26 January, at the Benalla Lakeside Community Centre, Showgrounds.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the nominations reflect the dedication and spirit that make 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
- Amber Armstrong
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-Bros’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 – Monday 26 January:
- Community Breakfast: 9am outside the Visitor Information Centre, Mair Street, 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 Movie Screening of Kangaroo (PG) at 2pm
Tickets for the Awards and Citizenship Ceremony are free but essential.
Book now: events.humanitix.com/2026-benalla-australia-day-and-citizenship-ceremony