From Netball Courts to Service Clubs, Riverland Champions Deserve Recognition

Citizen of the Year Award nominations are now open for the District Council of Loxton Waikerie, Berri Barmera Council and Renmark Paringa Council’s respective awards.

Residents are encouraged to nominate the people and organisations who make a real difference in the community, whether it’s on the netball court, in a service club, through the arts, in the agricultural sector or quietly working behind the scenes.

District Council of Loxton Waikerie Mayor Trevor Norton said nominations are now open for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Community Event of the Year and Active Citizenship/Building a Better Community Award.

“These awards are about celebrating the everyday champions in our towns and communities,” he said.

“Often they don’t seek recognition, but they are the ones who embody the generosity, resilience and spirit that make the Riverland such a special place to live.

“It’s important that we take the time to acknowledge their efforts and say thank you.”

Renmark Paringa Council Mayor Peter Hunter said the awards are an opportunity to honour the diversity of contributions that strengthen and enrich our communities.

“Every nomination tells the story of someone giving their time, their skills or their heart to make life better for others,” he said.

“Individually, those stories are inspiring. Collectively, they remind us that our region is defined not just by the river or the landscape, but by the people who call it home and their commitment to community”.

A simple nomination could mean everything to someone who has quietly made a difference, according to Berri Barmera Council Mayor Ella Winnall.

“Think about the people in your street, your club or your town who go the extra mile without ever asking for anything in return,” she said.

“This is the chance to make sure their efforts are recognised, celebrated and shared across the Riverland.”

Award winners will be formally recognised for their contributions and achievements at Australia Day events held across the Riverland in late January, with all members of the community encouraged to nominate.

To learn more about the awards, and to nominate someone in your council area, head to one of the links below:

Renmark Paringa: https://www.renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au/community/communitycelebrations/australiaday

Berri Barmera: https://www.berribarmera.sa.gov.au/our-community/community-awards

Loxton Waikerie: https://www.lwdc.sa.gov.au/community-information/citizen-of-theyear-awards

Nominations close 5pm Sunday 16 November 2025.