Local Hospitality Champion 

This award celebrates a local business that stands out as a trailblazer in the hospitality sector, contributing to the promotion of the Aston electorate as the preferred destination and offering an outstanding guest experience through warm and gracious hospitality.

Finalist

• FOFA

Winner

• The Inner Wheel Club of Boronia Inc

Mental Health and Wellbeing Champion

This award celebrates local groups and organisations working to reduce the impact of mental health and/or improve the emotional and physical wellbeing of the local Aston community.

Finalists

• TRK Care
• Knox INFOLINK
  

Winner

• Ben's Place

Connecting Communities Champion 

This award honours local groups and organisations demonstrating outstanding commitment to fostering connections and unity within the Aston community. This award specifically celebrates those who have played a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and social cohesion.

Finalists

• Shared Space
• Mountain Treasures Craft Group
• Knox Leisureworks and Belgravia Leisure
• Knox Toy Library
• Bridges Connecting Communities
• Foothills Community Care
• Melbourne Steam Traction Engine Club

Winner

• Volunteer For Knox

Sporting Champion

This award recognises a sports club or team that has demonstrated exceptional accomplishments, excellence in athletics performance and noteworthy contributions to the sporting community in Aston. The award celebrates the club's or team’s commitment to promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and positive values, both on and off the field.

Finalists

• Rowville Basketball Club
• Waverley Christian College Year 8-Boys Volleyball Team
• Wantirna South Junior Football Club

Winner

• Ferntree Gully Tennis Club

Leadership Award 

This award recognises an individual who has displayed exemplary leadership qualities and has made a significant impact within their sphere of influence. The award acknowledges outstanding vision, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire and guide others toward shared goals.

Finalists

• Antoine Khouri
• Paul Proctor
• Lily Chalmers
• Ricki Hersburgh
• Ross Black

Winner

• Lillie Giang

Innovation Award 

This award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional creativity, originality, and forward-thinking in their pursuit of groundbreaking solutions or advancements. The award honours those who have successfully implemented innovative ideas, processes, or products, resulting in tangible positive outcomes.

Finalists

• Nick Costello
• Maddie – Less Mess Maddie

Winner

• Ross Black

Rising Star Award

This award recognises an individual between the age of 16 and 30 who is early in their career but have already demonstrated exceptional promise, achievements, and a strong potential for future success. The award highlights outstanding contributions, dedication, and a noteworthy impact in their field or industry.

Finalists

• James Gan

Winner

• Neethu Kushalappa

Outstanding Young Achiever Award

This award recognises an individual between the age of 8 and 16 with exceptional achievements in academics, sports, arts, community service, or any other notable areas. Criteria for consideration may include demonstrated creativity, resilience, leadership qualities, and a positive impact on peers and the community. The Outstanding Young Achiever Award aims to inspire and applaud the extraordinary potential and early accomplishments of children, acknowledging their unique talents and encouraging a sense of pride and motivation for continued excellence.

Finalists

• Harrison Ashley
• Marcus Van Der Pol
• Jack Greening
• Noah Sefton
• Angela He
• Talulah Yarlett
• Arien Manuel

Winner

• Sarah Anderson

Local Hero Award

This category is designed to honour individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their local community, embodying the spirit of selflessness, compassion, and dedication. The award recognises those who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact, demonstrating acts of kindness, community service, and leadership. Criteria for consideration may include the scale of their contribution, the lasting effects on the community, and the ability to inspire others. The Local Hero Award aims to celebrate and showcase the unsung heroes within a community, acknowledging their invaluable efforts and highlighting the power of individuals to bring about positive change at the local level.

Finalists

• Michael Johnson
• Ross Newton
• Heather Elliot
• Paul Jones
• Pat Rivett
• John Poke
• Donna Jordan

Winner

• Gayle Dye

Volunteer of the Year Award

This award honours an individual who has demonstrated exemplary commitment, dedication, and selfless service through volunteer efforts within a specific community or organisation. The award recognises the outstanding impact of the recipient's voluntary contributions, emphasising qualities such as reliability, enthusiasm, and a sustained commitment to making a positive difference.

Finalists

• Stuart Draffin
• Gayle Dye
• Jodie Willox
• Mala Miles
• Rashedah Kaveh Ahangari

Winner

• Christopher Guinane

Carer of the Year Award

This award is dedicated to recognising and celebrating an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and compassion in providing care to others, whether it be within a professional capacity or as a dedicated family member. The award acknowledges the recipient's selfless commitment to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for those under their care. Criteria for consideration may include the level of empathy shown, the impact on the lives of those cared for, innovative caregiving approaches, and the ability to navigate challenges with resilience and grace.

Finalists

• Kerrin Fleming
• Teila Mcmanus
• Natalie Smith

Winner

• Kym Doove

Teacher of the Year Award

This award honours an outstanding educator who has demonstrated exemplary dedication, innovation, and effectiveness in the field of education. The award recognises the recipient's exceptional teaching methods, positive impact on students, and contributions to the overall learning environment. Criteria for consideration may include teaching excellence, student engagement, mentorship, curriculum development, and community involvement.

Finalists

• Meg Gleeson
• Neethu Kushalappa

Winner

• Dale Miles