Jeremy Jolliffe has been named Balranald Shire’s Citizen of the Year, recognised for his quiet but profound influence on the community and his tireless work in men’s mental health.

In Short

Community Hero: Jeremy Jolliffe named Citizen of the Year for his groundbreaking work in men’s mental health and local sports coaching.

Rising Stars: Vienna Buchanan (Young Citizen) and Noah Bodinnar (Young Sportsperson) lead a new generation of Balranald talent.

Sporting Resurrection: The Under 18s Football Team honoured as Team of the Year after a historic turnaround from winless seasons to the preliminary finals.

The Balranald business owner and football coach for both junior and women's teams has made it his mission to address the unique challenges faced by men in rural communities.

As the founder of Men’s Day, a men’s health day in Balranald, Jeremy has worked selflessly to break down barriers to seeking help, combat the pressures of isolation and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health.

His compassion, leadership and advocacy have created safe, welcoming environments where men feel heard, valued and supported, changing lives in the process.

An active member of the Balranald Tennis Club, Jeremy is known throughout the shire for his unwavering commitment to supporting the wellbeing of others.

His contributions in the men’s health space have been particularly significant, making a profound and lasting difference to countless individuals and families.

Jeremy was among several outstanding community members recognised at Balranald Shire's Australia Day celebrations, where residents gathered despite the heat at the Euston Recreation Reserve and Greenham Park Hall for barbecues, entertainment and the much-anticipated awards presentations.

This year’s Australia Day Ambassador, Isabella (Bella) Bain, captivated audiences with her inspiring story.

The 2025 NSW/ACT Young Achiever of the Year brought a fresh perspective on how creativity, technology and community can come together to create positive change. Bella’s work with organisations including Macquarie Group and IBM centres on designing clearer, more inclusive and human-centred experiences for all Australians, driven by her deep belief that technology should support people rather than overwhelm them, and that great design starts with empathy and understanding.

Bella joined Chief Executive Officer Terry Dodds and Mayor Louie Zaffina at the Euston Recreation Reserve for breakfast before moving on to Greenham Park Hall in Balranald for lunch, spending the day connecting with residents and celebrating what makes these communities thrive.

The award presentations proved a highlight of the day, with recognition going to individuals and groups whose dedication and service have left lasting marks on the shire.

Vienna Buchanan was named Young Citizen of the Year in recognition of her outstanding contributions and leadership at Balranald Central School throughout 2025. Her exceptional dedication as a student and community member marks her as one to watch in the years ahead.

Karen Norfolk received a Special Achievement award for her tireless volunteer work across numerous committees and organisations in Balranald, particularly her commitment to the Balranald SES.

Her countless hours of service have strengthened the community’s resilience and spirit.

Josie Harding was also recognised with a Special Achievement award for her outstanding and sustained commitment to Balranald over the past 25 years.

Her dedication and generosity in the sporting field have made a profound impact on local organisations and community initiatives, leaving a legacy that will be felt for years to come.

The Community Events of the Year awards went to two standout achievements.

The Back to Clare Country Event marked the first major community gathering of its kind in over 25 years, reigniting community spirit in spectacular fashion.

The ICPA Balranald Branch also earnt recognition for an outstanding year of achievement and leadership, highlighted by hosting the 2025 ICPA NSW State Conference in Euston and delivering the Hatfield Happening Women’s Day.

In the sporting categories, Sienna Comitti claimed Sportsperson of the Year for her outstanding achievements at Balranald Central School.

Noah Bodinnar took home Young Sportsperson of the Year.

Noah stands out not just for his impressive athletic achievements but for embodying true sportsmanship through respect, fairness, perseverance and humility.

His attitude, leadership and commitment to teammates and community set him apart as an exceptional young athlete.

The Under 18s Football Team, coached by Jake Lockhart and Graeme Longford, earned the Sporting Team of the Year award for their remarkable 2025 season.

After years without securing a single win, the team demonstrated extraordinary perseverance, growth and belief, resulting in an impressive run through the Central Murray League competition that saw them reach the preliminary finals.

Congratulations to all the award winners, and thank you for the countless ways you contribute to making the shire a better place for everyone.