Community leaders honoured at Australia Day Family Fun Day 2026

In partnership with Auspire – Australia Day Council WA, the City of Canning has announced the Community Citizen of the Year Award recipients for 2026, recognising four outstanding individuals and groups whose dedication, leadership and service continue to strengthen the local community.

The awards were announced during the Australia Day Family Fun Day on Monday 26 January at Shelley Beach Foreshore, a free, family-friendly and dog-friendly community celebration that
brought residents together by the river.

This year’s award recipients reflect the diversity, generosity and community spirit that continues to shape the City of Canning.
2026 Community Citizen of the Year Award recipients

• Active Community Citizen of the Year: Friends of Shelley Rossmoyne Foreshore (FoSRF)
• Community Citizen of the Year: Darren Hamley
• Young Community Citizen of the Year: Sheandra Perera
• Senior Community Citizen of the Year: Stephen Johnston

Mayor Patrick Hall said the awards provided an opportunity to acknowledge and thank all recipients for their contribution to the City.

“On behalf of the City of Canning, I sincerely thank each of this year’s award recipients for the time, care and commitment they give to our community.”

“Their efforts often happen quietly and without expectation of recognition, yet the impact of their work is felt across our neighbourhoods, our environment and our community
connections.” Mayor Hall said.

The Friends of Shelley Rossmoyne Foreshore (FoSRF) were recognised as Active Community Citizen of the Year for their long-standing commitment to environmental conservation along the
Canning River, combining hands-on restoration with advocacy that has helped shape local policy and protect biodiversity through the creation of a vital wildlife corridor.

Community Citizen of the Year, Darren Hamley, was recognised for his long-standing and ongoing volunteer contributions to the City of Canning, including supporting Rossmoyne Community Kindergarten, rescuing and rehabilitating local wildlife, and remaining actively engaged with students through environmental education and mentorship.

Senior Community Citizen of the Year, Stephen Johnston, was honoured for his sustained leadership in environmental conservation and education, with region-wide impact through his role as Chairperson of SERCUL and his work in large-scale restoration, collaboration and community education.

Winner of Young Community Citizen of the Year, Sheandra Perera, was recognised for her compassion and commitment to service, volunteering her time to support people experiencing homelessness and participating in initiatives such as the World’s Greatest Shave, demonstrating the powerful role young people can play in strengthening their communities.

Upon congratulating the winners, Mayor Hall said the recipients reflected the spirit of community that defines the City of Canning.

“These award recipients represent the heart of our community,” he said.

“Their generosity, leadership and willingness to give back create a stronger, more connected City of Canning, and we are grateful for the difference they make.”

The Community Citizen of the Year Awards are delivered through Auspire – Australia Day Council WA, in partnership with local governments across Western Australia, recognising individuals and groups who make an exceptional contribution to their communities.