Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Leanne Stickland - Cockburn Pets and Wildlife (including Lost and Found), Salvation Army Emergency Services, Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre

For over 25 years, Leanne has dedicated herself to helping others, beginning with the rescue of a mother dog and pup - a moment that sparked the creation of the national “Pound Hound” program, which has since helped thousands of animals find homes. She later founded Cockburn Pets and Wildlife, a 6,000-member group committed to reuniting lost pets, rescuing wildlife, and educating the public.
Leanne’s volunteer efforts span a wide range of causes - from the Salvation Army Emergency Services, supporting first responders during bushfires and search operations; protecting endangered species at Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre, to assisting with the creation of the Cockburn Youth in Emergency Services Cadets Program. She has also been a strong advocate for improvements in healthcare, disability services, and education. Her compassion and tireless commitment to community and conservation continue to make a lasting impact.

Second Place: Catherine Lumsden - Hami Helps, Community Collective Hamilton Hill, Hamilton Hill Community Group, Hamilton Hill & Surrounds Pets and Cockburn Pets Facebook Pages

Third Place: Helen Miskell - Treeby Community Associaiton

Volunteer Organisation of the Year

Winner: Cockburn Community Wildlife Corridor Inc - Bushcare Group

For more than 7 years this inspiring volunteer group has been restoring Cockburn's bushland by hand. Their work includes weeding, brushcutting, rubbish removal, and planting thousands of native tubestock, often using homegrown plants and personal resources. They are committed to ensuring best-practice landcare and collaborate with environmental experts and organisations such as SERCUL and the Rehabilitating Roe 8 Program.

The group also host fortnightly events at local sites which attract community members of all ages and have helped them build a strong and inclusive network.

Their efforts have not only revived local ecosystems and attracted native wildlife - they also played a key role in securing a zoning change that permanently protects one of the sites as Parks and Recreation.
In healing the land, the group has brought people together, inspired care for nature, and safeguarded a legacy for future generations.

Second Place: Cockburn Turtle Trackers - Saving Our Snake-Necked Turtle (SOSNT)

Third Place: Repair Cafe Cockburn

Mayor's Volunteer Award

Winner: Mike Graham - Marine Rescue Cockburn

Mike has dedicated an incredible 45 years to Marine Rescue Cockburn. Arriving in Australia as a “Ten Pound Pom,” he brought expertise, an unwavering passion and a deep commitment to community service.

Over the decades, he’s held nearly every role - Commander for 20 years, Skipper, Radio Officer, Trainer, Fundraiser, and now plays a key role in post-rescue community engagement.

Mike has been instrumental in building the physical and operational foundations of the organisation. From helping secure infrastructure that enables 24/7 operations to maintaining vessels and even running his home marine radio base daily, he has contributed tirelessly behind the scenes and on the front line. He's also mentored volunteers, promoted marine safety, and led vital fundraising efforts.

Mike's devoted service has not only saved lives but inspired others and strengthened community ties.

Second Place: Cono Favazzo - Cockburn Senior Citizens Association Inc.

Third Place: Kevin Hughes - Cockburn Care