Swan Hill Celebrates Local Heroes with 2026 Australia Day Awards
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Swan Hill Rural City Council has announced the recipients of its 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognizing individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the community.
The annual awards, presented by Mayor Cr Stuart King, acknowledge those who go “above and beyond” in their service to the municipality. “These awards shine a light on the people and organisations who quietly make our community stronger, healthier and more connected,” Cr King stated. “This year’s recipients demonstrate the very best of community spirit, compassion and leadership.”
Paula Williams Named Citizen of the Year for Landmark Hospital Fundraising
Paula Williams (Starrs) has been named Swan Hill Rural City Council’s Citizen of the Year 2026 for her extraordinary efforts in leading a community fundraising campaign that secured over $1.2 million in less than a year for a new MRI machine at Swan Hill District Hospital.
Williams’s initiative, fueled by the slogan “Give Where You Live,” united residents, organizations, and businesses in a remarkable display of generosity. According to Cr King, “Paula’s leadership and determination inspired an incredible wave of generosity. Her work has delivered a tangible outcome that will have a lasting impact on healthcare access for our region.”
Beyond the MRI campaign, Williams has consistently supported local causes, raising $42,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia through an auction at an Australian Wagyu Association gala dinner. Her artwork has also been loaned to the Swan Hill District Health maternity ward, creating a more welcoming environment for new parents. Williams is a practicing artist, having exhibited her work at the Swan Hill Art Gallery, the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, and the Bluethumb Exhibition – Under The Tree, and was previously nominated for the Doyles Award.
Eva Wong Receives Young Citizen of the Year Award for Inclusive Swim Initiative
Eva Wong has been awarded Swan Hill Rural City Council’s Young Citizen of the Year 2026 for founding “Move Swim,” a community-based social swim club promoting physical and mental wellbeing for people of all ages and abilities.
Wong, a Social Work student at Bendigo, identified a need for a non-competitive swimming environment where individuals could connect and stay active. “Eva is an outstanding young leader whose passion for inclusion and wellbeing is making a real difference,” Cr King remarked. “Her work shows how young people can lead positive change in our community.”
Move Swim offers weekly sessions and collaborations with local ambassadors, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Participants have praised the program for its positive impact on their physical health, social connections, and overall wellbeing.
Inner Wheel Club of Swan Hill Honored for Community Event of the Year
The Inner Wheel Club of Swan Hill has received the Swan Hill Rural City Council’s Community Event of the Year 2025 award for “Up the Garden Path,” a volunteer-led fundraiser that raised $4,000 for Cord Blood Research.
Held at the Grain Shed in June 2025, the event attracted around 300 attendees and combined a Devonshire Tea with garden-themed stalls, creating a welcoming environment for the community. “Up the Garden Path is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when volunteers come together with a shared purpose,” Cr King said.
The Inner Wheel Club of Swan Hill also actively supports numerous other local and global initiatives, including campaigns for Swan Hill District Health, UN Women’s “Unite” and “Orange The World” initiatives to end violence against women and children, and various other community projects.
Swan Hill Rural City Council extends its congratulations to all award recipients and expresses its gratitude for their exceptional contributions to the community. These individuals and organizations exemplify the spirit of service and dedication that makes Swan Hill a thriving and vibrant place to live.
