Some of Shellharbour’s hardest-working locals were given the recognition they deserve on Friday night at the city’s 2026 Community and Australia Day Awards.

Held at the Shellharbour Civic Centre, the annual ceremony recognised a record number of nominations from the community, with 10 individuals and groups honoured for the difference they make behind the scenes.

Top honours went to Jarrad Borg, named Citizen of the Year, and Tahlia Bonanno, who took out Young Citizen of the Year.

Mayor Chris Homer said both winners reflected the values that make Shellharbour such a strong community.

“Jarrad and Tahlia really represent the best of our city,” he said.

“Jarrad has created opportunities for others through sport, while Tahlia’s energy and leadership at such a young age is inspiring young people right across Shellharbour.”

Borg has played a key role in reshaping rugby league refereeing locally, growing the Referees Association from just 80 members in 2022 to 175 in 2025.

In 2025, he became the youngest life member in the organisation’s 100-year history and picked up the prestigious NSWRLRA Denis Braybrook Award.

For Tahlia Bonanno, volunteering is simply part of everyday life. As the 2025 Young Rural Ambassador, she’s supported shows across Albion Park, Kiama, Robertson and Dapto, while also mentoring young karate athletes, volunteering for Convoy and helping encourage youth involvement in agriculture.

The night also celebrated a wide range of local achievers, including:

Athlete of the Year – Rebecca Dunning (Stand-up Paddleboarding)

Young Athlete of the Year – Imogen Moore (Dual Sports)

Service to Sport – Boris Baraldi

Outstanding Diversity and Inclusion – Illawarra Star Strikers Ten Pin Bowling Club

Outstanding Contribution to the Arts – Renee Brighton

Volunteer of the Year – Ruth Jenkins

Community Capacity Builder – Shellharbour Surf Lifesaving Club

Community Group of the Year – Shellharbour Hospital Auxiliary

Mayor Homer said the awards were about recognising the people who quietly give their time and energy to others.

“These are the locals who step up, get involved and help make Shellharbour what it is,” he said.