Mornington Peninsula Shire has announced the recipients of its 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising local residents and community groups for their contributions to community life across the Peninsula.
The awards acknowledge individuals and organisations whose work spans volunteering, community service, advocacy, emergency services, events, sport, and heritage preservation.
According to the Shire, the awards highlight “local legends shaping the heart of the Mornington Peninsula”.
2026 Australia Day Award recipients
The 2026 recipients announced by Mornington Peninsula Shire are:
Citizen awards
Citizen of the Year: Chantelle Ross
Young Citizen of the Year: Reagan Morel
Community and service awards
Community Event of the Year: SPLaSH for Women Ladies Luncheon
Lifetime Achievement Award: Betty Preston
Community Advocate Award: Eric White
Community Inspiration Award: Brett McRae
Historical Preservation Award: Vic Jeremiah
Shire commendations
Commendation for Community Service: Kayne Barton
Commendation for Emergency Service: Thomas Taylor
Recognition award
Recognition of 50 Years of Service: Rye Athletics Carnival & Family Fun Day
Community representatives and acknowledgements
Mornington Peninsula Shire also publicly acknowledged representatives associated with the awards:
- Recognition of 50 Years of Service (Rye Athletics Carnival): Gary Gillies, Fay McCormick
- Community Event of the Year (SPLaSH for Women Ladies Luncheon): Dee Barton
- Citizen of the Year: Chantelle Ross
- Community Inspiration Award: Brett McRae
- Community Advocate Award: Eric White
- Young Citizen of the Year: Reagan Morel
- Commendation for Emergency Services: Thomas Taylor
The Shire noted that several recipients were absent from the announcement photo, including Betty Preston (Lifetime Achievement Award), Vic Jeremiah (Historical Preservation Award), and Kayne Barton (Commendation for Community Service).
Peninsula Tales video to feature award recipients
Mornington Peninsula Shire also confirmed that a Peninsula Tales video featuring Chantelle Ross and Reagan Morel is scheduled for release this week.
