Recognising locals going above and beyond
Published on 17 March 2026
The annual City of Whittlesea Community Awards were presented at the Community Festival on Sunday 15 March 2026, celebrating the strong sense of community spirit and honouring the exceptional service, leadership and dedication of our residents.
Five deserving locals were recognised for their outstanding contributions to our community.
Among the recipients were a retired teacher who has turned to conservation and caring for our environment, a young community leader providing opportunities for participation for people from all backgrounds, a brave young volunteer firefighter, a dedicated volunteer supporting men in need, and a passionate dentist and champion for inclusion.
Community Award recipients
Citizen of the Year: Dr Swati Sharma
As a dentist, Dr. Sharma understands the value of health education in oral care. Through her Miles for Happy Smiles mobile dental program, Dr. Sharma has reached children and families who might otherwise miss out on preventive oral healthcare. By visiting primary schools, secondary colleges, kindergartens, and childcare centres, she has helped children develop healthy habits early, reducing fear around dental care and supporting lifelong wellbeing. She also regularly delivers dental health talks at schools, temples, community gatherings, and aged-care settings, and has organised free dental camps for children, families, and the elderly.
In addition to her passion for oral care, Dr. Sharma is also passionate about protecting the environment and also fostering connection and inclusion. Dr. Sharma served as the founder and secretary of the Sanskriti Community Group for Women, creating welcoming spaces through yoga, dance, and cultural activities to reduce social isolation and strengthen community bonds, and currently serves as Vice President of the Whittlesea Interfaith Network.
Senior Citizen of the Year: Barrie Stewart
Barrie’s involvement in developing and running the Big Man’s Luncheon is a testament to his commitment to helping others in our community. The program provides meals and encourages mateship between participants, helping those in need. Barrie also volunteers his time at the Whittlesea Community Garden and Whittlesea Community House, helping with gardening, maintenance and a range of other activities.
Young Citizen of the Year: Mia Llewellyn
Eighteen-year-old Mia has been a volunteer firefighter at the South Morang CFA since she was 16 years old. In that time, Mia has attended more than 150 call outs and recently spent three days at the Longwood fire with the Yarrambat Fire Brigade. Mia has also recently joined the Mernda CFA and has completed training to enable her to deliver Truck Time sessions in local kindergartens.
Access and Inclusion Citizen of the Year: Ahmed Abumeis
Ahmed is a dedicated and compassionate community leader whose contributions have created meaningful impact across the City of Whittlesea. As a Youth Councillor and active member of the Cultural Connections Group and Amplify programs at the City of Whittlesea, Ahmed advocates for young people from diverse and multicultural backgrounds, ensuring their voices are heard and that they feel supported, valued, and connected within their community.
As a youth leader and soccer coach Ahmed trains and mentors players of all abilities, creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments where every participant can build confidence, develop skills, and experience a strong sense of belonging. Ahmed also volunteers for various community initiatives and helps coordinate community events that promote inclusivity and strengthen community connections.
Sustainable Environment Citizen of the Year: Liz Buckley
Liz is a retired teacher whose lifelong commitment to learning, care and community has naturally evolved into service as a climate activist, conservationist and community volunteer. Liz volunteers at Wollert Community Farm and plays an active role in conserving the Curly Sedge Creek, contributing to ecological surveys and hands-on environmental protection. Liz is also a founder member and pioneer of the Whittlesea Climate Action Network and regularly volunteers at Mernda Neighbourhood House.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Lawrie Cox:
“The Community Awards recognise and shine a light on the many wonderful people who go above and beyond for others in our community.
"Congratulations to our 2026 City of Whittlesea Community Award recipients, and to all those who were nominated.
"Your commitment to our community and helping others reflects the values of so many within our community, and we thank you for helping to make the City of Whittlesea an even better place for all.”