Australia Day Awards 2026
Sorell Council’s 2026 Australia Day Awards were presented at a special event at the Sorell Memorial Hall on Thursday 23 January.
Around 100 friends, family and community members attended the event and were entertained by music from Stacey Loukis and Grant Woodward, whilst enjoying an impressive grazing table and award winning wine by Bream Creek Vineyard. Eighteen new citizens were also welcomed to the community in a Citizenship Ceremony performed by Mayor Janet Gatehouse.
Sorell Council received sixteen individual and group nominations across three Australia Day Award categories. These Awards are the highest honour a Council can bestow on an individual or group for outstanding contribution to their local community.
The recipients of Sorell Council’s 2026 Australia Day Awards are:
Citizen of the Year – Graeme Holt
Graeme Holt has contributed to the Sorell community for more than four decades through leadership, employment and service. As a local business owner, Graeme invested in Sorell’s future by building the Mitre 10 store, creating employment opportunities and mentoring generations of local people. A founding member and long-serving President of the Sorell Rotary Club, Graeme has also volunteered across advisory groups, coaching and local media. His commitment to community, opportunity and civic pride has shaped Sorell in meaningful and lasting ways.
Community Event of the Year – South East Salvo’s Christmas Lunch
The South East Tasmania Salvos Community Christmas Lunch provided a welcoming, inclusive space for people to come together and share a free Christmas meal. Supported by a dedicated team and an army of volunteers, the event delivered a generous two-course lunch, games, carols and gifts for people of all ages. Behind the scenes, volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure everyone felt welcome, valued and cared for. The Christmas Lunch reflected the Salvos’ strong commitment to compassion, generosity and supporting our community during the festive season.
Community Group of the Year – South East Netball Association
The South East Netball Association (Suns) is a vibrant and inclusive pillar of community sport across the Sorell municipality and South East region. Celebrating 10 years as an Association in 2025, the Suns deliver competitions, development programs and representative pathways that support players of all ages and abilities. Powered by a strong volunteer base, the Association promotes health, wellbeing and connection, while nurturing talent that has gone on to represent Tasmania at state and national levels. Through inclusive programs, partnerships and community events, the Suns play a vital role in strengthening participation, belonging and community spirit.
