Congratulations to our Citizen of the Year award recipients
Eleven Adelaide Hills Council residents and seven community groups are being recognised for their outstanding contributions to the community through the Adelaide Hills Council Citizen of the Year Awards 2026.
The awards celebrate individuals, groups, events and organisations who demonstrate acts of kindness, dedicate countless hours of service, and show a strong commitment to improving the lives of others across the district.
Acting Mayor Nathan Daniell said the awards highlight the strength, generosity 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,” Acting Mayor Daniell said.
Bob and Barb Hahesy of Woodside have been named the Adelaide Hills Council Citizens of the Year 2026. The couple are being recognised for their significant contribution to the Woodside community through the creation of the Love Woodside Community Group, as well as their work enhancing 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 commitment exemplifies 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 provided valuable opportunities for young people to connect, be active, and lead healthier lives.”
An additional Commendation in the Citizen of the Year category is being 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 meticulously 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, maintaining public spaces including the community centre, post office, playground and tennis court.
The 23 December Lobethal Pageant has been awarded the 2026 Community Event of the Year, as a standout event that brings the spirit, joy, and excitement of Christmas to the Lobethal main street.
In addition, 14 individuals and groups have been selected to receive 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.
The awards will be officially presented on Friday 23 January at the Citizenship and Civic Awards Ceremony in Stirling.
