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LOCAL LIFE
Council calls for nominations for
the 2026 Australia Day Awards
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Do you know someone in the Hawkesbury who always lends a hand, no matter the weather? Someone selfless, community-minded and committed to making a difference?
Nominations are now open for the Hawkesbury’ s 2026 Australia
2025 Citizen of the Year, Sarah Cassim
Day Awards – a perfect opportunity to recognise an individual or group whose efforts, big or small, have had a meaningful impact on our community.
Whether it’ s through volunteering, lending a listening ear over a cuppa, supporting a local group, or inspiring our future leaders, there’ s a category to suit every kind of contribution. This year’ s awards also include a commemorative plaque for someone who has made a lasting impact, even after they’ ve passed.
Last year’ s Citizen of the Year, business consultant Sarah Cassim, was recognised for her work empowering local women through the Hawkesbury Women in Business group – now boasting more than 1,000 members.
Sarah says Australia Day is a time to honour the tireless efforts of individuals and communities who strive to make Australia a better place.
“ For me, it’ s also a moment to reflect on the
Sleeping out to lift others up: Richmond Lions Winter Sleepout returns
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The Richmond Lions Winter Sleepout is back for its second year, and organisers are calling on the Hawkesbury community to come together for a night of compassion, connection and purpose.
Set to take place on Saturday, 2 August 2025 at Richmond Park, the event aims to raise vital funds and awareness for those in our region affected by homelessness, domestic violence and mental health challenges.
The initiative, co-founded by Warren Doyle and Scott HInks of the Richmond Lions Club, is not only a fundraising drive but a powerful statement of solidarity with the vulnerable members of
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our community. Last year’ s event was a great success, and this year, the team is hoping to make an even greater impact, with a fundraising goal of $ 10,000.
All proceeds will be donated to the Hope4U Foundation, a Hawkesbury-based charity providing critical frontline support to people in crisis. From emergency accommodation and counselling referrals to essential outreach services, Hope4U plays an integral role in supporting those in need.
Warren says the Sleepout is about far more than just braving a cold night:“ It’ s about shining a light on hardship close to home –
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and doing something practical to help. We’ re urging locals to join us, donate, or simply spread the word. Every bit counts.”
Participants will spend the night sleeping rough in Richmond Park to better understand the realities faced by many in our area. Community members, businesses and schools are invited to take part, sponsor sleepers, or donate directly.
For more information or to get involved, visit the Richmond Lions Club Facebook page or contact Warren Doyle directly on 0429 148 088. Together, let’ s help ensure no one in our community is left out in the cold.
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Participants at Sleepout 2024 |
values that define the unique identity of the Hawkesbury – compassion, inclusivity, and resilience.
“ What inspires me most about the Hawkesbury is its heart. This is a place where people genuinely care for each other and come together in times of need. The spirit of helping out a mate, of working together – that’ s what drives our strong sense of community. The strength and resilience of the people here should never be underestimated,” she said.
The 2026 award categories include:
• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Community Organisation of the Year
• Sportsperson of the Year
• Local Hero Award
• Environmental Award
• Arts and Culture Award
• Commemorative Plaque( Posthumous Award)
Winners will be celebrated at a special Australia Day event, where they’ ll have the chance to share the moment with family and friends.
Don’ t miss the chance to recognise someone special. Nominations close on Sunday, 17 September 2025.
To submit a nomination, visit hawkesbury. nsw. gov. au. 4 ISSUE 182 // JULY 2025 theindependentmagazine. com. au THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT