Winners announced for 2026 Tasmanian Volunteering Awards

TASMANIA’S most inspiring volunteers and volunteering champions have been celebrated at the 11th annual Tasmanian Volunteering Awards, with winners announced during a ceremony at The Old Woolstore on Friday 18 September.
In its eleventh year, the state-wide awards program organised by Volunteering Tasmania is an opportunity to honour the extraordinary impact volunteers have across the state.
Volunteering Tasmania chief executive officer Mel Blake said the awards showcase inspiring stories and recognise excellence in volunteering among friends, family, colleagues and the broader volunteering industry.
“It’s always special time when we celebrate the volunteers who go above and beyond to strengthen Tasmanian communities,” she said.
“Their commitment, compassion and innovation inspire us all.
“The stories behind this year’s winners highlight the extraordinary impact volunteers have, whether it’s uplifting women and children, welcoming new Tasmanians, or dedicating decades of service to their community.
“Volunteers don’t ask for recognition, but today is about saying thank you, not just to our winners, but to every Tasmanian who gives their time to make a difference.”
The 2026 award winners included Kellie Woolnough from Launceston Volunteers for Community, who received the Excellence in Volunteer Leadership and Management Award for more than 15 years of work strengthening volunteer programs and community participation.
Hobart-based Print Radio Tasmania received the Inclusive Volunteering Award for creating accessible opportunities for people with disability to participate and lead, while Soroptimist International Launceston received the Volunteer Impact Award – Group or Program for its work supporting women, girls and vulnerable families.
TasNetworks received the Workplace Volunteer Impact Award for its partnership with Hobart City Mission, which includes more than 280 volunteer hours each year.
Burnie’s Scott Clarke AFSM received the Lifetime Commitment Award after more than 40 years of volunteering across Tasmania’s emergency services, rescue and community sectors.
Fourteen-year-old Tyrese Holland from Penguin received the Tasmanian Youth Volunteer Award after contributing hundreds of hours to sporting clubs, community organisations and fundraising initiatives across the North-West.
Georgie Ibbott received the Volunteer Impact Award – Individual for her leadership and volunteering across organisations including TasCOSS, Wildlife Network Tasmania and Orange Sky.
Mrs Blake said the 2026 winners reflected the extraordinary reach of volunteering in Tasmania.
“The diversity of this year’s winners shows how volunteering touches every part of Tasmanian life, from youth leadership and community programs to decades-long commitments of service,” she said.
“It’s a privilege to celebrate their passion, their commitment and the difference they make every single day.
“Volunteering Tasmania extends our sincere thanks to all Awards sponsors, partners and supporters, your support ensures we can recognise and honour the volunteers who are the heart of our communities.”
Volunteering Tasmania is the peak body for volunteering in the state, with a purpose to strengthen and enhance volunteering through leadership, education, and connection.
This is achieved by working closely with volunteer-involving organisations to represent the interests of all Tasmanians involved in volunteering, through research, consultation, policy development and community relationships.
For more information and the full list of finalists visit www.volunteeringtas.org.au/tasmanian-volunteering-awards