Community
30 January, 2026
‘Reliable, humble’ couple Citizens of Year
The tireless volunteers accepted their awards at Australia Day events in the municipality on Monday.
ST ARNAUD’s Len and Bev Reid are Northern Grampians Shire’s Australia Day Citizens of the Year for 2026.
The tireless volunteers accepted their awards at Australia Day events in the municipality on Monday.
Mayor Karen Hyslop said it was wonderful to see so many friendly faces at the council-run events, taking time to connect and celebrate what makes the shire such a special place to live in.
“Days like today remind us how fortunate we are to belong to a place where people show genuine care, kindness and support for one another,” she said.
“The day also gave us the opportunity to recognise many of the individuals and groups who go above and beyond.
“These people give their time, energy and passion not for recognition, but because they care deeply about helping others and strengthening our community.
By celebrating them all, we acknowledge the vital role they play in shaping the place we are so proud to call home.”
The day’s festivities kicked off with a community breakfast in Market Square, with awards and citizenship ceremonies conducted in St Arnaud Town Hall.
Mayor Karen Hyslop said there was plenty of competition for this year’s accolades, with councillors selecting winners from a strong pool of applicants in both Kara Kara and combined Central and Grampians ward divisions.
The Kara Kara Citizen of the Year award was jointly awarded to powerhouse couple Len and Bev Reid.
“Reliable, humble and always ready to step in whenever the community needs them, the Reids’ willingness to contribute – often without being asked – has made a significant impact across many areas of our town,” Cr Hyslop said.
This is highlighted by their participation in St Arnaud Agricultural Show, where Mrs Reid is chief steward.
Both she and her husband volunteer throughout the entire four-day event, attending planning meetings, coordinating entries, resolving last-minute issues and assisting with full set-up and pack-up.
“Their efforts ensure the show runs smoothly and remains a highlight of the local calendar,” Cr Hyslop said.
Mr Reid also volunteers with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, providing essential transport for community members travelling to medical appointments in and out of town.
The Reids’ passion for preserving and promoting local heritage saw them play a key role in planning and creating the St Arnaud Mining Trail, and they work closely with Visitor Information Centres throughout the district, providing guided tours and sharing their extensive knowledge of the region’s history.
“Their contribution to St Arnaud is broad, meaningful and long-standing,” Cr Hyslop said.
“They assist with events, help individuals, preserve local stories, promote tourism and strengthen the community in countless ways.
“They do all of this quietly and without seeking recognition, and St Arnaud is richer for it.”
Community Group of the Year
GRAMPIANS Youth Events – St Arnaud collected the Community Group of the Year award for its efforts to deliver three vibrant events that brought young people together in safe, welcoming spaces.
Jungle Disco, Youth Fest and a youth trivia night attracted more than 120 attendees and created opportunities for fun and creativity.
“They only formed last year but their impact goes beyond events,” Cr Hyslop said.
“They have built bridges between youth and the wider community, engaging more than 10 local organisations and services to showcase what is possible when collaboration thrives.
“They have amplified young voices, provided leadership opportunities and created a platform where youth feel valued and included.
“They are shaping the future for youth in St Arnaud – and they are just getting started.”
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