Citizens of The Year 2026
Eleven Adelaide Hills Council residents and seven community groups were celebrated for their outstanding contributions at the Adelaide Hills Council Citizen of the Year Awards, held on Friday 23 January 2026 at the Stirling Library Lawn.
The awards recognise individuals, groups, events and organisations who show kindness, give their time generously and work to make life better for others across the district.
Acting Mayor Nathan Daniell said the awards highlight the strength and community spirit found throughout the Adelaide Hills.
The Citizen of the Year Awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the people and groups who quietly and consistently make a difference in our communities.
Awards Photo Gallery
Citizens of the Year 2026
Bob and Barb Hahesy of Woodside were named Adelaide Hills Council Citizens of the Year 2026.
The couple were recognised for their significant contribution to the Woodside community through the creation of the Love Woodside Community Group. Their work has also helped enhance the Love Woodside Community Garden and the Woody Trails BMX Track, creating welcoming spaces for people of all ages.
Acting Mayor Daniell said Bob and Barb’s efforts truly reflect the spirit of the awards.
Bob and Barb’s commitment to bringing people together and improving shared community spaces has had a lasting and positive impact. Their grassroots leadership has strengthened community connections and created opportunities for young people to be active, connect and lead healthier lives.
Commendation: Citizen of the Year
An additional commendation in the Citizen of the Year category was awarded to Julie Telfer of Cherryville.
A lifelong Cherryville resident, Julie has been an exceptional contributor to her community for many years. For more than a decade, she has carefully documented Cherryville’s history, including resident stories and family trees. Her work led to the establishment of the annual Cherryville History Day.
Julie is also a dedicated hands-on volunteer, helping to maintain local public spaces including the community centre, post office, playground and tennis court.
Event of the Year
The 23 December Lobethal Pageant was named the 2026 Community Event of the Year, recognised as a standout event that brings the joy and excitement of Christmas to the Lobethal main street each year.
Active Citizenship Awards
In addition, 14 individuals and groups received Active Citizenship Awards in recognition of their positive impact across the Adelaide Hills community.
2026 Award Recipients
Citizen of the Year
- Bob and Barb Hahesy
Commendation: Citizen of the Year
- Julie Telfer
Event of the Year
- 23 December Lobethal Pageant
Award for Active Citizenship
- Keryn Huggins
- John Wittwer
- Martin Gribble
- Stephanie Richards
- Laura Craig
- Kimberley Cepon
- Ron and Helen Kroepsch
- Love Woodside Community Garden Group
- Spark (Group)
- Lobethal Lutheran School Parents and Friends Association
- ANZAC Day Ceremony: Houghton (Event)
- Bright Night: Stirling Business Association (Event)
- Tracks of Change: From Trains to Treadlies – Discover Mount Torrens (Event)
The Citizen of the Year Awards are a premier awards program of the Australia Day Council of South Australia, recognising outstanding community service and civic contribution.
Citizenship Photo Gallery
Alongside the Citizen of the Year Awards, we were proud to welcome new residents from near and far to our Hills community at a Citizenship Ceremony on the Stirling Library Lawn on Friday 23 January 2026.