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Community champions honoured at 2026 Hawkesbury Australia Day Awards
Outstanding community members and organisations were celebrated at the 2026 Hawkesbury Australia Day Awards, with Mayor Les Sheather praising the dedication, compassion and leadership shown across the Hawkesbury.
Hawkesbury City Mayor Les Sheather said he was delighted to recognise the incredible work undertaken by the award recipients.
“To be with all of you while you are honoured with an Australia Day Award is a great privilege. You are all people who care about your community and commit time and skill to the improvement of it. Today we recognise that,” Mayor Sheather said.
“Whether it’s by inspiring others, helping others or by sharing knowledge, your contribution is appreciated and is to be commended.”
Citizen of the Year – Bruce Earle
The 2026 Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Bruce Earle for his lifelong service and outstanding contribution to the Hawkesbury through the Freemans Reach Rural Fire Brigade.
Bruce has been a member of the brigade since the age of 16, continuing a proud family legacy that spans generations. Over the years he has held almost every position within the brigade and has served as Captain for nearly 20 years.
During his leadership, Bruce rebuilt the Freemans Reach Fire Brigade from a small group with minimal membership into a highly trained, cohesive and respected team that plays a vital role in protecting the community during bushfire season. His leadership was particularly evident during the Gosper’s Mountain Fire, where he led the local brigade while also stepping into Divisional Commander roles to help coordinate the wider district response.
Known for his humility and natural leadership, Bruce’s passion for the Rural Fire Service continues to inspire volunteers across the Hawkesbury.
Young Citizen of the Year – Bailey Carle
Bailey Carle was named Young Citizen of the Year in recognition of his determination, resilience and sporting achievements.
After overcoming personal adversity, Bailey has excelled in basketball, often playing above his age group and competing six nights a week in the Hawkesbury. He proudly wears his mum’s number, 65, on the court.
In 2025, Bailey was selected to train and play with youth basketball teams in the United States and has again been chosen to return in 2026. A talented athlete and positive role model, Bailey is a proud ambassador for both basketball and the Hawkesbury.
Community Organisation of the Year – Barking with Bianca
Community Organisation of the Year was awarded to Barking with Bianca, a local doggy day care that has been operating in the Hawkesbury for more than 30 years.
While providing supervised play, training, pet sitting and dog walking services, Barking with Bianca is also deeply committed to community wellbeing. Owner Bianca leads donation drives for pet-related supplies, distributing them to people in need, and partners with mental health and emotional support organisations.
Through therapy dog visits and puppy therapy programs, Barking with Bianca brings comfort, joy and emotional support to vulnerable members of the community.
Sportsperson of the Year – Mackenzie Patterson Hollibone and Leanne Leach
Two recipients shared the Sportsperson of the Year Award in 2026.
Nineteen-year-old Mackenzie Patterson Hollibone was recognised for her outstanding achievements in showjumping at both state and national levels. A professional athlete based in the Hawkesbury, Mackenzie is also studying Veterinary Technology at university and gives back to the sport by volunteering at Sydney Showjumping.
Leanne Leach was honoured for an extraordinary 53 years of service to Hawkesbury netball through the Hawkesbury City Netball Association Representative Committee and the Riverstone Netball Club. Over five decades, Leanne has coached, mentored and supported countless players, coaches and volunteers, leaving a lasting legacy across the local netball community.
Environmental Award – Stephen Brown and Kevin O’Connor
The Environmental Award was jointly presented to Stephen Brown and Kevin O’Connor for their tireless efforts to enhance and protect Pitt Town’s local environment.
Known as Pitt Town’s “gardening dream team”, Stephen and Kevin regularly mow and maintain entry points, exits and community spaces, ensuring the town presents beautifully for residents and visitors alike. They also generously assist community members who are unable to maintain their own lawns due to illness.
Both are active members of the Pitt Town Progress Association, and in 2020 Stephen received lifetime membership in recognition of his long-standing service.
Local Hero Award – Helen Knobbs and Anne Marks
Two inspiring volunteers were named Local Heroes for 2026.
Helen Knobbs has volunteered at the Hawkesbury Community Kitchen for an incredible 35 years, cooking and serving thousands of meals to people in need. Described as compassionate, selfless and a mentor to many, Helen continues to serve the community in all conditions, always putting others first.
Anne Marks was recognised for her dedication to the protection of macropods, including kangaroos and wallabies. A WIRES member since 2018, Anne has rescued and cared for almost 900 macropods. Through her research into kangaroo road-crossing behaviour, Anne’s advocacy led to the installation of one kilometre of virtual fencing on Hawkesbury roads, improving safety for both wildlife and motorists. She continues to advocate for improved lighting, fencing and community education.
The 2026 Hawkesbury Australia Day Awards highlighted the extraordinary people and organisations whose commitment continues to strengthen, protect and inspire the Hawkesbury community.
