Recipients 2026
Andrew Plastow
South Australia’s Citizen of the Year for 2026
Council area – City of Charles Sturt
Head of College and a proud Kamilaroi man Andrew Plastow is reshaping education for Aboriginal and disempowered children and families, challenging conventional schooling to prioritise equity, cultural connection and community. Through the leadership and establishment of Ngutu College, he has redefined schooling by centering equity, culture and community; influencing education reform nationally.
The College supports more than 300 students, with 51% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander enrolments, with a learning environment where every child, young person and family can belong, thrive and be heard. Initiatives that provide career pathways for young people while fostering cultural connection and strengthening community engagement are demonstrated through the Ngani Cafe and the success of the Aboriginal Educators Program.
Ishaan Chaudhuri
South Australia’s Young Citizen of the Year for 2026
Council area – City of Norwood, Payneham and St Peters
At just 16 and in his first year of medical school, made a remarkable community impact – advancing rural Indigenous healthcare access, tutoring disadvantaged students, holding national and community leadership roles, and raising thousands for childhood cancer and rural health initiatives.
Ishaan volunteers with St John Ambulance SA and serves as National Secretary of the Australian Medical Students’ Association. His leadership reflects maturity, discipline and strong civic responsibility and a passion for equity in education and health.
David Richardson
South Australia’s Award for Active Citizenship for 2026
Council area – Mount Barker District Council
David Richardson plays a central role in strengthening community life in Nairne. An active member of the Country Fire Service brigade, he contributes locally and supports incident management at regional and state levels.
As President of the Nairne District Residents Association, he fosters collaboration across volunteer groups through Network 5252 and helps deliver major events including the Nairne Twilight Markets, History Monthand Carols. David serves on the Nairne Netball Club and Oval Committees and assists on the Nairne Soldiers Memorial Hall Committee. His sustained volunteer leadership continues to build resilience and shared passion for his community.
The Laura Nature Playground Committee
Commendation for South Australia’s Award for Active Citizenship for 2026
Council area – Northern Areas Council
The Laura Nature Playground Committee has delivered a project that will benefit the community for generations. Through consultation, grant funding and hands-on volunteer effort, leadership and teamwork the committee transformed a local vision into a major community asset.
The safe, inclusive, nature-inspired playground strengthens family connection, supports children’s wellbeing and enhances local pride, reflecting strong collaboration and long-term community commitment.
Lyne Harrison
Commendation for South Australia’s Award for Active Citizenship for 2026
Council area – Light Regional Council
Lyne Harrison is a cornerstone of the Light Country Community Centre’s food and relief service. Volunteering three days a week, she coordinates food logistics and ensures equitable distribution to those experiencing hardship.
Her behind-the-scenes leadership sustains this essential community service and promotes dignity, inclusion and connection across the region. Lyne’s reliability and compassion embody the true spirit of community service.
The Gawler Show
South Australia’s Community Event for 2026
Council area – Town of Gawler
The Gawler Show continues to deliver significant social, cultural, and economic value, attracting more than 25,000 visitors in 2025. With over 3,800 competition entries, the event celebrates more than 170 years of agricultural and creative heritage.
South Australia’s largest regional show includes the Young Farmers Challenge and Rural Ambassador initiative supporting youth leadership and agricultural sector development. Backed by almost 200 volunteers, the Show remains a defining regional event in South Australia that connects community across the region.
Victor Harbor Half Marathon
Commendation South Australia’s Community Event for 2026
Council area – City of Victor Harbor
Since 2022, the Victor Harbor Half Marathon has grown from 700 to 4,000 participants, delivering measurable economic, community connection and benefit to the Fleurieu Peninsula region.
The inclusive event welcomes elite runners, beginners and families, with volunteers from local sporting clubs and community groups across race weekend, supporting local tourism and hospitality. The addition of a Health and Wellness Expo further strengthened the focus on wellbeing and active lifestyles.
