Ballarat Community Heroes Awards recognize local volunteers

The 2026 Ballarat Community Heroes Awards have recognized three individuals for their significant contributions to the local community. Each winner received $5,000 for their nominated charities.

Neil Para was named the Emergency Services Hero, recognized for his 10 years of service as a volunteer and crew leader for the State Emergency Service. Chenay Wilkinson received the Community Sporting Hero award for her work as president of the Sebastopol Football Netball Club, where she focuses on inclusion and supporting junior girls' football.

Bec Ware was honored as the Community Service Hero. As vice-chair of Ballarat Business Women and a board member of the Safe Together Network, she has been instrumental in developing safe spaces for survivors of domestic violence.