The 2026 Volunteering North Queensland Volunteer of the Year Awards are here, and it’s time to recognise the incredible volunteers who make a real difference in our community!
These awards are open to volunteers and organisations contributing to their communities in Townsville, Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, Palm Island, Mount Isa and all regions in between.
Whether it’s an inspiring young volunteer, a lifelong contributor, an outstanding volunteering or corporate program or manager, sporting individual or helpful neighbour, this is your chance to honour their hard work and dedication.
Help us shine a spotlight on volunteers who dedicate themselves to helping others and spread the word about the positive impacts volunteering makes in the lives of individuals, groups, communities and the environment.
There are eight categories of nominations.
- Volunteer of the Year Award – Sponsored by Townsville City Council
- Youth Volunteer of the Year Award – Sponsored by McDonalds
- Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award – Sponsored by Townsville Bulletin
- Excellence in Volunteer Management Award – Sponsored by Di Newell – The People and Culture Link
- Community Volunteering Program Impact Award
- Corporate Volunteering Award – Sponsored by Queensland Country Bank
- Sports Volunteer Award – Sponsored by South32
- Neighbour of the Year Award – Sponsored by Bravus
Nominations close midnight Sunday, 19 April 2026
Finalists will be announced in early May 2026
Recipients will be announced at a Mayoral Civic Reception, thanks to Townsville City Council, on Tuesday, 19 May 2026
Visit the 2026 VNQ Volunteer of the Year Awards page to find out more about the award categories and nominate a worthy individual, organisation or program that deserves recognition.
