Recipients of the 2026 Volunteering North Queensland Volunteer of the Year Awards were announced at a Mayoral Civic Reception on 19th May 2026, hosted by Townsville City Council. Held during National Volunteer Week celebrations, the annual awards honour the amazing North Queensland volunteers who work tirelessly to strengthen our North Queensland and surrounding communities.
Congratulations to the Recipients of the awards:
- Kathleen Walsh – Volunteer of the Year Award;
- Madi Hamilton – Youth Volunteer of the Year Award;
- Carol Sanderson – Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award;
- Sandra Lamari – Excellence in Volunteer Management Award;
- Florence Bay Rover Crew – Community Volunteering Program Impact Award;
- Biniris – Corporate Volunteering Award;
- Lorraine McClintock – Sports Volunteer Award; and
- Jach Marsden – President’s Choice for Outstanding Volunteer Contribution.
Click here to meet the winners and read their inspiring volunteering stories.
All nominees were invited to the NVW ‘Inspire and Ignite’ Lunch on Friday, 22 May, following the first day of VEXPO, where they received their certificates and were recognised for their invaluable contribution to volunteering.
National Volunteer Week 2026: ‘Your Year to Volunteer‘, honours the contributions of volunteers and encourages people across Australia to make 2026 the year they get involved and make a difference, and invites everyone to discover how giving their time and talents can spark joy, and a deep sense of purpose. #NVW2026
