Recognises a person of any age that has made an outstanding contribution and/or given outstanding service to the Nillumbik community.
2025 Nominees
David Kerrigan
David Kerrigan is a dedicated volunteer, historian and vice-president of Allwood Neighbourhood House’s Committee of Governance, with a passion for history, the arts and Reconciliation. Over the past four years, he has founded the Hurstbridge Artists Guild, led local history sessions, and integrated Aboriginal history into the community narrative. In 2024, David wrote, directed and starred in The Bridge, a historical community play based on the stories of Hurstbridge, mentoring a large cast and crew, and engaging more than 600 people across Nillumbik. His commitment to advancing Reconciliation is evident through programs, events, and meaningful partnerships with First Nations people, bringing local history to life and fostering deeper community connection.
Friends of Apollo Parkways Inc.
Friends of Apollo Parkways Inc. is a dedicated resident group committed to conserving and enhancing public open space. They successfully advocated for the rezoning and naming of Kirrip Park, securing its protection for future generations. The group has obtained nearly $98,000 in grants for infrastructure and planting, contributed to the Masterplan, and delivered projects including a fitness circuit, extensive planting to improve amenity, and a new playground—creating vibrant recreational spaces for the whole community to enjoy.
Guy Palmer
Guy Palmer is a dedicated community leader in Nillumbik, known for his volunteer work with Local Food Connect, U3A, the Eltham Farmers' Market, and initiatives like Incredible Edible Eltham. His efforts promote local food, sustainability and community engagement.
Jayne Clarke
Jayne, founder of Imagine Re-Evolution, combines expertise in accounting, disability studies, and mental health with over a decade of experience in the not-for-profit sector. Launched in 2022, the organisation empowers youth, fosters community, and addresses poverty by connecting generations around sustainability and social justice. Jayne’s leadership drives its mission to create lasting change, starting in Melbourne’s North East and aspiring to make a global impact.
John Huf
John has been an active volunteer in Nillumbik over many years, contributing to areas covering the environment, sports and recreation, education and community safety. He has always supported his community and the natural environment through his actions and has undoubtedly made Nillumbik a better place through his efforts. John has always been polite, strong in his commitments, and presented evidence-based contributions to many committees on which he has served. He is genuine, likable and invaluable.
Ken Houghton
Ken joined the Diamond Creek Men's Shed in December 2014. In 2017 he became an active member of the Keep Men Grounded team. KMG is a program that was originally sponsored by the Victorian Government aimed at keeping older men off ladders for safety reasons. KMG provides a safe gutter cleaning service for residents in Nillumbik and Banyule. He is now the KMG team leader. He was also a committee member 2019 till 2024.
Linda Box
Linda Box has been an integral part of Hayden’s Helping Hands, a grassroots charity supporting people experiencing homelessness. Her dedication over many years has helped drive weekly outreach efforts, food hamper preparation, and the coordination of donation drives. Linda is the first to arrive and the last to leave, always offering support with warmth and humility. Her selfless service and commitment to community wellbeing make her an outstanding volunteer and a deserving nominee.
Pam Hayes
Pam Hayes is the behind the scenes organiser at many community events. Living in Nillumbik for 49 years, she has been the driving force behind On the Hill festivals, Carols in the Park, the St Andrews Film Society Living & Learning courses and chook races to fund the CFA. Her caring soul wraps around the needy, encourages young musicians, organises activities for older women, shows deep respect for our environment and its indigenous people. A quiet hero.
Peter Nankervis
Peter has dedicated more than 45 years to the Nillumbik community through leadership, education, heritage preservation and environmental initiatives. A long-time Arthurs Creek resident, he has served on the Arthurs Creek Mechanics Institute, School Council, Landcare and heritage groups. His work in preserving local history, organising community events, and volunteering strengthens community connections, celebrates local heritage, and fosters a sense of belonging for future generations.
Rebecca Landy
Rebecca is a tireless volunteer for Nillumbik, particularly Hurstbridge. She single-handedly runs the very popular weekly Storytime at Allwood House, which combines her knowledge of literature, drama and Auslan. She is part of the Allwood House Committee and Bridge Collective of local artists. On top of that she runs free professional photography shoots for parents and their children, and while not a volunteer position, she runs the low cost No Lights No Lycra in Hurstbridge.
Rodney Crowther
Rodney has been involved in addressing the mental health of people aged over 55 in the various community groups around Eltham. He has been a leader in discussing men's mental health in particular, and opening up conversations with his peers around their mental health in an difficult environment. Rodney also has donated his expertise in photography, picture framing and restoration to the Eltham Men's Shed members for over 12 years.
Timothy Adams
Tim Adams, a retired biomedical researcher, has been a pillar of Eltham Rugby Union Football Club since 2002. During his 12 years as President, he has guided the Club through major transformations, bringing strategic vision and hands-on commitment. Through his interactions with Club members and the local community, and negotiations with governing bodies he has empowered growth and development of community rugby and made a lasting and positive impact on the Nillumbik community.
Wayne Spence
Wayne has been the President of the Diamond Creek Blue Light for more than 14 years. The Diamond Creek Blue Light is a non-profit branch which services the children of the Diamond Valley area and beyond. It is the only Blue Light Discos remaining in Nillumbik, Banyule, Whittlesea or Darebin. Wayne runs eight discos a year for children between eight and 13, keeping the children engaged in a positive and safe environment.