Mars Wrigley Australia is proud to announce a new community initiative celebrating the unsung heroes of the community who make a positive contribution to the strength and resilience of the Ballarat region.
The inaugural Mars Ballarat Community Heroes awards, proudly supported by The Courier, will showcase the wonderful volunteers and members of the community who consistently go above and beyond to make Ballarat a better place to live.
There are three Mars Ballarat Community Heroes award categories open for nominations:
- The Mars Community Service Hero
- The Mars Emergency Services and Frontline Volunteer Hero
- The Mars Community Sport Hero
Each of the Mars Ballarat Community Heroes award winners will receive a $5,000 cash donation to their nominated charity of choice.
Nominations are open from today (Wednesday, 12 March 2025) with the Western Bulldogs supporting the cause and housing the Mars Ballarat Community Heroes nominations portal on its website and mobile app.
Eligible nominees must be over the age of 18, reside in the Ballarat region and volunteer their time in the one of the outlined categories. Entries will close on April 11, with the winners announced in the build-up to the Western Bulldogs first game of the 2025 season at Mars Stadium on May 3.
Mars Wrigley General Manager, Michael Ryan, said the awards are a great way for the people of Ballarat to champion their local community heroes.
"The strength of towns like Ballarat are nothing without the people who roll up their sleeves and dig in to support the community, whether it be at the local sports club, community support services or emergency services," Ryan said.
"As a long-standing member of the Ballarat community, we're excited to recognise and celebrate these community leaders and unsung heroes who consistently put the needs of others and the Ballarat region first."
The judging panel will consist of Mars Wrigley General Manager Michael Ryan, Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains, and Ballarat Mayor Tracey Hargreaves.
Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves, said the Mars Ballarat Community Heroes awards are a fantastic way to recognise the dedication of local volunteers.
"Ballarat's strength lies in its people - the volunteers, frontline workers, and community members who give their time and energy to make our city a better place," Cr Hargreaves said.
"The City of Ballarat is proud to support this initiative, which highlights the incredible individuals who go above and beyond for our community. I encourage everyone to nominate a local hero and help us celebrate those who make a real difference."
The announcement of the awards comes off the back of a 3-year extension of the Mars Stadium partnership with the Western Bulldogs and the City of Ballarat.
Western Bulldogs CEO, Ameet Bains, said the club was proud to back the inaugural Mars Ballarat Community Heroes awards.
"We have been working alongside Mars in the Ballarat community for many years, and during this time together we've seen firsthand the fantastic community spirit and support on display," Bains said.
"The Mars Ballarat Community Heroes is a great initiative, and we look forward to announcing the worthy winners in a few weeks' time."
The Courier's Simon Remington said the Mars Ballarat Community Heroes would showcase the great people who make the region a great place to live.
"The Courier is delighted to partner with Mars on this tremendous initiative," Remington said.
"It will shine a light on those amazing individuals in the community whose actions enrich the very fabric of Ballarat and what it stands for."
Click here for entry requirements and to nominate a community hero.
