Homegrown Heroes
Every community has its heroes – those selfless individuals and groups who go above and beyond to make a difference. The Homegrown Heroes Awards celebrate the extraordinary efforts of our local champions who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to enriching our community.
Whether they’re volunteers, advocates, mentors, or leaders, these inspiring individuals help shape the heart and soul of the Harvey Region making it a stronger, more connected, and a better place to live.
Nominations for the 2026 Homegrown Heroes recognition awards are open until midnight 14 April 2026.
Nominate someone who has made a meaningful impact and help us shine a light on their outstanding achievements. There are four categories of Awards as follows:
Meritorious Service Award
This award is presented to a Shire of Harvey resident who has shown exemplary conduct, and made an exceptional contribution to community.
As a guide, Meritorious Service Awards may be considered for persons who have made an outstanding contribution to one or more community organisations for a minimum period of 10 years.
Appreciation Award
Appreciation awards may be awarded to Shire of Harvey residents who have made a significant contribution to their local community for a minimum period of three years.
Community Service Award
Celebrate groups, events, or individuals fostering community connection and inclusivity.
Sporting Excellence Award
Celebrate individuals or teams contributing to the sports community.
Selection Criteria
Please note the following selection criteria for each award.
Nominees for selection must ordinarily be (living) residents of the Shire of Harvey and have given distinguished service to the community.
Please note that exceptions may be made for people who reside outside of the Shire of Harvey if their meritorious service has been within, and benefited the residents of, the Shire of Harvey.
- Nominees for selection must ordinarily be (living) residents of the Shire of Harvey and have given distinguished service to the community.
- A person must first be nominated to be considered for the awards. Self-nominations are not accepted.
- Current elected members or staff of State and Federal Government, and the Shire of Harvey are not eligible.
- Nominations must be apolitical in nature.
- Late entries will not be accepted.
- The Shire’s Awards and Honours Advisory Group will consider all nominations received and will allocate the most appropriate honour or award to the individual(s) or group(s), based on the nomination received and, in order to complete its evaluation may make confidential enquiries and seek further information about the nominee.
- Throughout the nomination process, including the deliberations of the Shire’s Awards and Honours Advisory Group, strict confidentiality will be observed and should also be observed by nominators alike.
Include the following information:
- Name of organisation(s) served.
- Years of service.
- Positions held.
- Initiatives or projects instigated.
Briefly describe any important achievements that the nominee has been responsible for or made a significant contribution to whilst serving the community. Please note, these achievements cannot but due to paid employment.
Describe how the nominee’s contribution has benefitted the local and/or wider community.
Include samples of press articles, awards, certificates etc.
2025 Winners
Our 2025 Homegrown Heroes are:
- Meritorious Award – Fiore Rando
- Appreciation Award – Craig Maughan
- Appreciation Award – Phil Musitano
- Appreciation Award – Kate Pfoeffer
- Youth Award – Ethan Nankivell
- Community Group Award – St John Ambulance – Harvey
- Community Group Award – Brunswick River Cottages Committee
