Australian volunteers honored with regional and national awards

Several individuals have been recognized for their long-term community service in Australia through various volunteer awards.

Dawn Weyland has been named the 2026 Ageing Australia You are ACE! Volunteer of the Year. A resident of Murray Bridge, Weyland has been involved with Resthaven Murray Bridge for over 50 years, including 23 years as an employee. Her volunteer work also includes supporting the Rural City of Murray Bridge Visitor Information Centre and the Rambler Football Club, where she is a life member.

In New South Wales, Rory McKenzie was named the 2026 Riverina Volunteer of the Year at the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. McKenzie was recognized for his commitment to community health, safety, and governance for non-profit organizations in Wagga Wagga. Other regional recipients included Sarah Smith as the Riverina Young Volunteer of the Year, Steven Ballard as the Riverina Adult Volunteer of the Year, and Margaret Hill as the Riverina Senior Volunteer of the Year.