Bass Coast Shire Council today opened nominations for the 2025 Bass Coast Community Awards celebrating the volunteers, leaders, and changemakers who make our region a better place.
Held during National Volunteer Week, these awards shine a light on the individuals and groups whose dedication strengthens our community.
Nominations close on 4 May 2025, with winners to be announced at a special awards ceremony on 28 May at the Cape Paterson Surf Lifesaving Club. The Community Awards complement Council's Bass Coast Business Awards, which are also open for entries.
This year introduces an exciting new category, the Sports Leadership Award, created to celebrate the people, clubs and initiatives making an outstanding contribution to sport and recreation across Bass Coast. Whether through coaching, committee leadership, creating inclusive programs or hosting memorable local sporting events, this award recognises the positive influence sport can have in building community.
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead said "Every year, we see the incredible impact volunteers and community leaders have across Bass Coast. These awards are our way of saying thank you to those who dedicate their time and energy to making our region stronger, more inclusive, and connected. If you know someone whose efforts deserve recognition, now is the time to nominate them."
The 2025 Community Awards include:
- Community Leader Award (all ages)
For an individual who in their profession or as a volunteer lead by example, inspires others and demonstrates excellence and commitment in their field.
- Next Generation Leader Award (aged 12 to 25)
Celebrates an exceptional young person(s) who demonstrates leadership and courage, to make an outstanding contribution to the Bass Coast Community that inspires others.
- Community Group Award
Recognises a Bass Coast community group, sports club, or not-for-profit, which provides support, events, fundraising or services for the benefit of residents and visitors.
- Sports Leadership Award
New in 2025, this award celebrates the outstanding contributions of individuals, organisations or events that strengthen our sporting and active recreation culture in Bass Coast. This can include, but is not limited to individuals, organisations and events.
Now is the time to recognise those who go above and beyond to make our community a better place. If you know someone who deserves to be celebrated, nominate them today!
