Shellharbour City has celebrated its local champions, announcing the winners of its prestigious 2026 Citizen of the Year awards after a record-breaking number of community nominations.
Community Champions Recognised in Ceremony
In a ceremony held on Friday, January 16, 2026, the city's top honours were bestowed upon two remarkable individuals. The 2026 Citizen of the Year title was awarded to Jarrad Borg, president of the South Coast Group 7 Referees Association, for his transformative work in rugby league refereeing.
Under Mr Borg's leadership, the association has experienced phenomenal growth, expanding from 80 members in 2022 to 175 in 2025. This makes it the fourth largest referees association in Australia. Council officials praised his dedication to developing junior referees, securing vital sponsorships, and creating clear career pathways, stating his efforts have set "a new benchmark for excellence".
Mr Borg's accolades include becoming the youngest life member in the Referees Association in 2025 and receiving the prestigious NSWRLRA Denis Braybrook Award for his significant contribution to refereeing culture.
Inspiring Youth Leadership
The Young Citizen of the Year award was presented to Tahlia Bonanno for her exceptional volunteer work and leadership. Ms Bonanno served as the 2025 Young Rural Ambassador, providing crucial support to local shows in Albion Park, Kiama, Robertson, and Dapto.
Her community involvement is extensive. She volunteers for Convoy, mentors young athletes in karate—a sport she competes in at a high level—and serves as vice president of The Ag Group (TAG). In this role, she helps run school agricultural programs and has earned multiple awards for poultry showing.
Mayor Praises Community Spirit
Shellharbour City Council Mayor, Chris Homer, said the winners perfectly embody the spirit of the city. "Jarrad's commitment to mentoring and developing others has created lasting opportunities within our sporting community," Mayor Homer stated.
"Tahlia's passion and leadership at such a young age is an inspiration to youth across Shellharbour. When we recognise people like Jarrad and Tahlia, we're reminded the future of our community is in great hands." He added that their dedication and willingness to give back demonstrate the powerful impact individuals can make.
Full List of 2026 Award Winners
The ceremony celebrated achievements across multiple categories:
- Citizen of the Year - Jarrad Borg
- Young Citizen of the Year - Tahlia Bonanno
- Athlete of the Year - Rebecca Dunning (Stand-up Paddleboarding)
- Young Athlete of the Year - Imogen Moore (Dual Sports)
- Service to Sports - Boris Baraldi
- Outstanding Diversity & 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
The awards highlight the depth of talent, service, and community spirit thriving within the Shellharbour region.
