Cardinia Shire Council was proud to announce and celebrate the nominees and winners of the 2026 Cardinia Shire Australia Day Awards at a special ceremony on Thursday 22 January.
This year’s Cardinia Shire Australia Day Award winners are:
2026 Citizen of the Year: Robb Evans
2026 Senior Citizen of the Year: Maureen Timms
2026 Young Citizen of the Year: Eliza Owen
2026 Event of the Year: Emerald Arts Society Annual Art Exhibition
The awards ceremony at the Cardinia Cultural Centre celebrated the outstanding contributions of volunteers whose dedication and passion make a positive difference to the local community.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Brett Owen congratulated the 2026 winners and nominees and thanked them for their valuable contribution.
“Our Australia Day Awards showcase the strength, spirit and generosity that define our community, allowing us to come together to celebrate the selfless contributions of people who’ve dedicated their time and energy to making Cardinia Shire a better place,” Mayor Owen said.
“These community members continue to be the heart of Cardinia Shire — quietly giving their time, energy and passion to help others and strengthen our community. Their dedication is nothing short of inspiring.
“On behalf of Cardinia Shire Council and our entire community, I warmly congratulate the 2026 Australia Day Award winners and nominees. Your contributions help make our shire an inclusive, vibrant and welcoming place for all.”
Mayor Owen congratulated 2026 Citizen of the Year, Robb Evans, on his deserving win.
“Robb’s unwavering commitment and efforts are nothing short of extraordinary,” Mayor Owen said.
“Robb founded Liv’s Legacy to honour his daughter, Olivia, whose life was sadly cut short at just 15 due to anorexia nervosa. In the face of unimaginable loss, Robb chose not only to honour her memory, but to create lasting change for countless families across Australia.
“His work has made a huge difference to families navigating the impacts of eating disorders, and his courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment have created real and lasting change.”
Mayor Owen said the 2026 Senior Citizen of the Year, Maureen Timms, had been an outstanding volunteer with Palliative Care South East since 2012, contributing more than 150 hours through the companionship program.
“Maureen consistently goes above and beyond, taking on extra clients and offering exceptional care and support,” Mayor Owen said.
“Maureen continues to inspire through her generosity and positive example. Her compassion and selflessness make her a true role model and a deserving recipient of the Senior Citizen of the Year Award.”
Mayor Owen said Young Citizen of the Year, Eliza Owen, had displayed exceptional dedication to her community as a volunteer with the Emerald SES and CFA.
“From a young age, Eliza supported logistics and welfare during major storms, even when her own home was destroyed. Officially joining the SES at 15, she quickly became a trusted team member, assisting with storm response, flood recovery, landslides, and community engagement.
“Eliza has earned her CFA five-year service award and is recognised as a youth leader in Emerald and Cockatoo. Eliza’s strength, positivity, and commitment make her an inspiring role model for young people.”
Mayor Owen said the 2026 event of the Year – the Emerald Arts Society Annual Art Exhibition – had been a highlight of the local calendar for 55 years.
“This much-loved and long-standing annual event celebrates creativity and strengthens community connections through art,” Mayor Owen said.
“The event attracts entries from across Victoria and interstate, featuring more than 200 exhibits and drawing more than 400 visitors across four days.”
Mayor Owen thanked all Australia Day award winners and nominees for their valuable contributions and positive impact on the community.
The annual Australia Day Awards celebrate and recognise the outstanding contributions made by individuals and community groups to the Cardinia Shire community. Councillors and former winners were invited to vote on the nominations received for each category. A unique link was provided to each person voting which only registered one vote and could only be used by the person voting. Prior to voting, each participant was required to complete a Conflict of Interest and confidentiality declaration.
To find out more about the 2026 Cardinia Shire Australia Day Awards nominees and winners, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/AustraliaDayAwards
A citizenship ceremony will be held on Australia Day, Monday 26 January at 10am at Cardinia Cultural Centre.
