Mayor's Message, July 22, 2026

By Cr Brett Tessari

Last week, I had the privilege of presenting the Bass Coast Community Awards at Berninneit, one of the most inspiring and uplifting evenings on our community calendar.

The awards are an opportunity to celebrate people who make a difference, not because they have to, but because they care. They remind us that behind every thriving community are individuals and groups who quietly contribute their time, energy and expertise to support others. This year's finalists and winners were outstanding examples of that spirit.

The awards recognise contributions of all shapes and sizes. Some recipients have dedicated decades of service to our community, such as Community Leader Award winner Joy Niven, while others, like Next Generation Leader, Amy Hodson, remind us that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference.

We also celebrated the contributions of Marjorie Scott, whose environmental stewardship is helping protect the natural places we value, Country Universities Centre Bass Coast, which is creating opportunities through greater access to education, and Cowes Community Meal, which continues to build connection and belonging through the simple act of sharing a meal.

What I enjoy most about the Community Awards is the inspiration they provide.

Listening to the stories of our finalists and winners reminds us that great communities don't happen by accident. The awards give us a chance to pause and recognise those efforts, but they also encourage all of us to think about the role we can play in shaping the future of Bass Coast.

One of the things I'm most excited about this year is that our winners will receive a professional development and coaching package tailored to their goals. Rather than simply recognising what they've already achieved, we're investing in what comes next. Whether it's building leadership skills, strengthening an organisation, developing resilience or growing community impact, this support will help our winners continue to make a difference. In many ways, the benefits will flow well beyond the recipients themselves and back into the community they serve.

The Community Awards always leave me feeling hopeful. They remind us that positive change doesn't always come from grand gestures. More often, it comes from people who decide to lend a hand, show up consistently and care about the place they live.

As we look toward to next year's awards, I encourage everyone to think about who in their community deserves recognition. Maybe it's a volunteer, a neighbour, a mentor, a local group ... or maybe it's you!