The Huon Valley Council proudly recognised the extraordinary contributions of local volunteers at the annual Huon Valley Community Awards, held at the Palais Theatre on Saturday, 24 May 2025.
The ceremony, hosted by MC Dean Harris MLC, celebrated National Volunteer Week 2025 under the theme “Connecting Communities” with a record number of recipients honoured for their service.
Mayor Sally Doyle expressed gratitude to the award recipients, whose combined service totalled an impressive 460 years of volunteer work across the Huon Valley.
“The dedication shown by our volunteers is truly the backbone of our community,” said Mayor Doyle. “Their selfless commitment to enhancing life in the Huon Valley creates the connections that make our region such a special place to live.”
A record 14 Lifetime Service Awards were presented to individuals who have dedicated more than two decades to community service, including Dr. Liz Smith, Elaine Burton, Ann Brittain, and William Sutherland, who has given nearly 40 years of service through the Rotary Club of Huon Valley.
The prestigious Citizen of the Year award went to Gary Ashdown, President of the Huon Valley Tourism Network, for his contributions to tourism, community welfare, and economic growth. Zac Curtain received the Excellence in a Chosen Field award for his selection to the Australian Under-19 cricket team, while Brad Kitto and Hannah Lovell of Run, Move, Connect earned the Community Contribution Award for their inclusive health initiatives that have transformed the social landscape of the Huon Valley.
The annual Community Awards, celebrate those who demonstrate strong community values and contribute to the vibrancy and prosperity of the Huon Valley.
