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Manningham’s community champions were celebrated at the 2026 Manningham Community Awards on Thursday 13 August, recognising local people and organisations making a positive contribution across the municipality.
The awards recognised achievements across volunteering, sport, health and wellbeing, the arts, inclusion and community service.
Citizen of the Year: Ben Duffy
Park Orchards resident Ben Duffy was named the 2026 Manningham Citizen of the Year and also received the Young Achiever Award.
At only 21, Ben completed 52 marathons in 52 weeks to raise funds for the Pat Cronin Foundation, which works to prevent coward punch violence through education and awareness.
His efforts have supported violence prevention education programs in schools, sporting clubs and community organisations.
Manningham Mayor Cr Jim Grivas congratulated the winners and finalists, thanking them for giving their time, energy and expertise to strengthen the community.
Award Winners
Doreen Stoves Excellence in Volunteering: Sandrajane Vincent-Corry
Through her leadership of the Park Orchards Community Pantry, Sandrajane Vincent-Corry has coordinated large-scale food collections to support local families with care packs while also helping to reduce food waste.
Active Community: Vicky Lee
Through her work with Slamin Tennis, Vicky Lee has encouraged greater participation in sport through inclusive tennis programs and school-to-club pathways. Her initiatives promote engagement, wellbeing and long-term participation in physical activity.
Ageing Well: Ahmad Sami
Ahmad Sami has supported the wellbeing of older residents through community programs, practical assistance and opportunities for social connection. His work helps reduce isolation while supporting independence and wellbeing.
Artistic Achievement: Heide Museum of Modern Art
Heide Museum of Modern Art was recognised for its Creative Age program, which gives people living with dementia and their carers opportunities to participate in inclusive arts experiences. The program promotes creative expression, connection and wellbeing.
Community Excellence: Lions Opportunity Shop Warrandyte
Volunteers at Lions Opportunity Shop Warrandyte were recognised for their dedicated community service. The opportunity shop raises funds for a range of community projects while providing a welcoming space for people to connect.
Community Health and Wellbeing: Kevin Heinze Grow
Kevin Heinze Grow delivers inclusive, nature-based and therapeutic horticulture programs that encourage physical activity, social connection and emotional resilience. Its programs also provide opportunities for community volunteering.
Inclusive Community: Onemda Disability Services
Onemda Disability Services was recognised for its Embrace Café partnership with Millward Calvary Aged Care. The initiative gives people with disability opportunities to develop skills, confidence and social connections through experience in a real café environment.
Young Achiever: Ben Duffy
Ben Duffy was also recognised with the Young Achiever Award for his commitment to helping young people make positive choices and creating safer communities through his support of the Pat Cronin Foundation.
His fundraising has helped support violence prevention education delivered in schools, sporting clubs and community organisations.
This year’s awards celebrated the many individuals and groups who give their time, energy and commitment to making Manningham a stronger community. Congratulations to all this year’s finalists and winners, and thank you for the contribution you continue to make across Manningham.
