General News
13 July, 2026
Awards shine a light on local volunteers
VOLUNTEERS right across the Grampians Wimmera Mallee region have been acknowledged for their dedication and contributions to local communities at the 2026 Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism Volunteer Summit and Recognition Awards.
The event was held at the Murtoa Stick Shed, and the summit brought together tourism operators, volunteers, community groups, industry partners, and local government representatives to recognise the people who help drive the region’s tourism industry and community events.
The highlight of the day was the Volunteer Recognition Awards, which received 29 nominations from across the region, recognising outstanding generosity, commitment, and community spirit.
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism chief executive, Mark Sleeman, said the awards emphasised the enormous role volunteers played in shaping the region’s visitor economy and community life.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of our region,” he said.
“Behind every great event, tourism experience, and community initiative are passionate people giving their time, energy, and expertise to make our communities stronger and more welcoming.”
Among the award recipients, the Dunkled and Grampians Visitor Information Centre received the Gold Award, while the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre went home with the Silver Award, and the Speed Lions Club was presented with the Bronze Award.
The Outstanding Individual Contribution Awards were presented to Josie Sangster of Harrow Discovery Centre and Monique Cummings from Run The Gap.
Mr Sleeman said the judging process had been challenging due to the high calibre of nominations received from across the region.
The summit featured a keynote address from Volunteering Victoria chief executive Geoff Sharp, who spoke about the transitioning landscape of volunteering and opportunities to strengthen volunteer networks across regional Victoria.
Those who attended also participated in breakout sessions led by Kate Kirkpatrick from Grampians Grape Escape and Julie Gibson from Northern Grampians Shire Council, exploring future opportunities, challenges, and collaboration in volunteering.
Mr Sleeman noted that the Volunteer Summit reinforced the significance of recognising and supporting volunteers, who continue to be the backbone of communities throughout the Grampians Wimmera Mallee region.