Community Citizen of the Year Awards

Auspire is the organisation responsible for running the Community Citizen of the Year Awards.

Nominations for 2026 are open until Friday 31 October 2025.

Each year, the Community Citizen of the Year Awards give local governments around Western Australia the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution and celebrate engagement of people in the local community.

Contributions can take many forms, including education, health, fundraising, voluntary services, business, employment, sport, arts, environment, social inclusion, or any other area that contributes to the betterment of the community.

There are four Award categories:

Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals over 16 years)
Young Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals aged 16-30 years)
Senior Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals aged 65 years or over)
Active Citizenship Award (for community groups or events)

Click here to nominate

For further information about the City of Nedlands’ Australia Day Awards Ceremony, please contact the Administration and Events Officer on 08 9273 3500 or contact us via the enquiry form.

Make an enquiry

Community Citizen of the Year Recipients 2026

Grace Ratneser | Young Community Citizen of the Year

Grace's generosity and compassion have profoundly enriched our community. Through her dedicated partnership with Dress for Success WA, she has donated essential items, organised clothing drives, raised significant funds and volunteered her time to empower women on their journey toward employment and dignity, collectively contributing more than $2,700 to this vital mission. Her philanthropy extends further, supporting families through Foodbank Perth, bringing joy to children via the Kmart Giving Tree, aiding HeartKids Australia, assisting Vinnies Mosman Park, and donating clothing to the Vanni Hope Foundation in Sri Lanka. She has also championed health causes by raising funds for breast cancer research and continues to foster community spirit through her regular volunteering at Parkrun. What sets Grace apart is not only the breadth of her contributions, but the compassion and sincerity with which she serves.

Richard Leake | Senior Community Citizen of the Year

Richard’s service as a community volunteer driver has been nothing short of transformative for community members with aged care needs. With kindness, patience, and understanding, he ensures older people can attend appointments, social events, and meet personal needs, while also assisting with errands, odd jobs, and gardening. His role extends beyond transport; he is a trusted companion, taking the time to listen, share conversations, and bring comfort to those who may otherwise feel isolated. Loneliness is one of the greatest challenges faced by older people, yet Richard’s warmth and reliability have made him so well regarded that he is often requested by name. Through his dedication, he has enabled many to remain in their own homes longer and more comfortably, while also contributing to their positive mental health by regularly visiting for a chat or a cuppa. Richard embodies the true spirit of service, reminding us of that compassion and human connection are powerful forces in enriching lives and strengthening our community.

Eleanor Sanders | Senior Community Citizen of the Year

Eleanor Sanders has been a pillar of Girl Guides WA for nearly 25 years, dedicating herself with passion and perseverance to the growth and empowerment of young girls. Affectionately known as “Ninnox” to her youth members, she has led the Subiaco Girl Guides unit with enthusiasm, giving hundreds of girls aged 6 to 10 the chance to explore new experiences, build confidence, and discover their potential as future leaders. Her leadership has inspired exceptional initiative among her Guides, who consistently engage with their community and embrace challenges with eagerness and resilience. Beyond her unit, Eleanor served as Seaward Region Manager, overseeing nine Girl Guides units and mentoring countless volunteers, ensuring the organisation’s strength and continuity. She has also devoted years to managing the Monash Avenue Guide Hall, independently coordinating improvements, liaising with council, and navigating complex issues such as the ongoing sewage challenges in 2025 and always with persistence and determination.

Eleanor’s tireless efforts, her commitment to mentoring, and her unwavering belief in the value of Girl Guides have left a profound impact on generations of girls and volunteers alike. Her legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and community spirit, and it will continue to inspire future generations of Guides and volunteers.

Linda Griffin | Community Citizen of the Year

Linda was awarded this honour for the work she does within her role as Principal at Nedlands Primary School. Linda's enthusiasm and tireless work with the Nedlands Primary School P&C have enabled the school to raise significant funds, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for children to learn and play. Her efforts have brought tangible improvements, from upgraded playground equipment to the installation of new soccer goals, which benefit not only the students but also the wider community who enjoy them outside school hours. Beyond facilities, Linda has fostered a strong sense of multicultural belonging by encouraging families to stay after school, build friendships, and engage with local activities, helping international families feel less isolated and more connected. She has ensured that P&C events strengthen community ties, inviting neighbours to participate, as seen in the recent Billy Cart race. Linda also recognises the vital role of grandparents, who often share in co-parenting responsibilities, and she honours the Nedlands Primary School’s history by working with families to commemorate long-standing contributors, such as the installation of a bench in memory of Douglas Arrowsmith. Through her dedication, Linda has enriched both the school and the community, leaving a legacy of inclusivity, connection, and care.