2026 Citizen of the Year Awards South Australia – Celebrating Community Leadership and Connection Across South Australia –
The Citizen of the Year Awards South Australia, a flagship program delivered by the Australia Day SA, recognises individuals and community groups who strengthen local communities through leadership, service and innovation. Presented in partnership with 68 Councils statewide, the 2026 Awards highlights outstanding contributions in education, volunteering, emergency service, youth leadership and major community events.
The Citizen of the Year Awards shine a spotlight on everyday South Australians across our state who are making a profound difference in the community. This year’s Citizen of the Year recipients and commendation awardees demonstrate how local leadership and active citizenship continues to shape resilient, inclusive, connected and forward-looking communities across South Australia.
Citizen of the Year
Andrew Plastow, City of Charles Sturt
Head of College and a proud Kamilaroi man Andrew Plastow is reshaping education for Aboriginal and disempowered children and families, challenging conventional schooling to prioritise equity, cultural connection and community. Through the leadership and establishment of Ngutu College, he has redefined schooling by centering equity, culture and community; influencing education reform nationally.
The College supports more than 300 students, with 51% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander enrolments, with a learning environment where every child, young person and family can belong, thrive and be heard. Initiatives that provide career pathways for young people while fostering cultural connection and strengthening community engagement are demonstrated through the Ngani Cafe and the success of the Aboriginal Educators Program
Young Citizen of the Year
Ishaan Chaudhuri, City of Norwood, Payneham and St Peters
At just 16 and in his first year of medical school, Ishaan Chaudhuri has made a remarkable community impact – advancing rural Indigenous healthcare access, tutoring disadvantaged students, holding national and community leadership roles, and raising thousands for childhood cancer and rural health initiatives.
Ishaan volunteers with St John Ambulance SA and serves as National Secretary of the Australian Medical Students’ Association. His leadership reflects maturity, discipline and strong civic responsibility and a passion for equity in education and health.
Award for Active Citizenship
David Richardson, Mount Barker District Council
David Richardson plays a central role in strengthening community life in Nairne. An active member of the Country Fire Service brigade, he contributes locally and supports incident management at regional and state levels.
As President of the Nairne District Residents Association, he fosters collaboration across volunteer groups through Network 5252 and helps deliver major events including the Nairne Twilight Markets, History Monthand Carols. David serves on the Nairne Netball Club and Oval Committees and assists on the Nairne Soldiers Memorial Hall Committee. His sustained volunteer leadership continues to build resilience and shared passion for his community.
Commendation
The Laura Nature Playground Committee, Northern Areas Council
The Laura Nature Playground Committee has delivered a project that will benefit the community for generations. Through consultation, grant funding and hands-on volunteer effort, leadership and teamwork the committee transformed a local vision into a major community asset.
The safe, inclusive, nature-inspired playground strengthens family connection, supports children’s wellbeing and enhances local pride, reflecting strong collaboration and long-term community commitment.
Lyne Harrison, Light Regional Council
Lyne Harrison is a cornerstone of the Light Country Community Centre’s food and relief service. Volunteering three days a week, she coordinates food logistics and ensures equitable distribution to those experiencing hardship.
Her behind-the-scenes leadership sustains this essential community service and promotes dignity, inclusion and connection across the region. Lyne’s reliability and compassion embody the true spirit of community service.
Community Event of the Year
The Gawler Show, Town of Gawler
The Gawler Show continues to deliver significant social, cultural, and economic value, attracting more than 25,000 visitors in 2025. With over 3,800 competition entries, the event celebrates more than 170 years of agricultural and creative heritage.
South Australia’s largest regional show includes the Young Farmers Challenge and Rural Ambassador initiative supporting youth leadership and agricultural sector development. Backed by almost 200 volunteers, the Show remains a defining regional event in South Australia that connects community across the region.
Commendation
Victor Harbor Half Marathon, City of Victor Harbor
Since 2022, the Victor Harbor Half Marathon has grown from 700 to 4,000 participants, delivering measurable economic, community connection and benefit to the Fleurieu Peninsula region.
The inclusive event welcomes elite runners, beginners and families, with volunteers from local sporting clubs and community groups across race weekend, supporting local tourism and hospitality. The addition of a Health and Wellness Expo further strengthened the focus on wellbeing and active lifestyles.
About the Citizen of the Year Awards South Australia
The Citizen of the Year Awards continue to showcase the depth of leadership and contribution across South Australia’s local government regions. From grassroots volunteering and education reform to major regional events and youth advocacy, these recipients exemplify the spirit of community connection and service.
The Awards are proudly presented by the Australia Day Council of South Australia (ADCSA) in collaboration with our Members, Local Government Authorities and Councils across the State. This statewide partnership highlights local recognition of outstanding individuals and community groups and maintains consistent program integrity and governance.
The Awards are proudly sponsored by the Local Government Association of South Australia, Sarah Constructions, MGA Insurance Group, Community Bridging Services, Community Business Bureau, and Flinders University, whose support strengthens the program’s reach and impact across South Australia.