Nominate your local Community Gem

Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale MP is calling for nominations for the annual Community Gem awards.

Now in its seventh year, the awards recognise people who have shown their true community colours and "made hearts sing", Ms Crugnale said.

"Whether it is an act of kindness small or big, a caring, thoughtful gesture seen in your school, work, street, club or town, exceptional service at the shops, servo, café or on the local bus - we want to hear about it so we can thank them too."

In the previous years, nominations have included people volunteering at sporting clubs, op shops, rescuing and caring for cats and dogs, cooking at a local Men's Shed, fundraising, knitting for charities and donating toys to families in needing that extra bit of support and love.

"Our community is full of incredible people who step up, lend a hand and give their time and energy to make where we live even stronger and more connected," Ms Crugnale continued.

"They do this quietly because they have their community at heart.

"This is your chance to nominate that exquisite Community Gem, who embodies the true essence of community spirit, that inspires us and whose energy and positivity is contagious too."

There are no rules, no age barriers, no categories, it's just open to everyone living or working in the Bass electorate.

Everyone nominated will receive a letter of appreciation, with five outstanding Gems being gifted a hamper packed with high-quality local produce, handcrafted goods, and vouchers for nature-based experiences.

The stories of these inspiring individuals will also feature on social pages as part of a Sunday series titled 'Community Gems as nominated by you'.

Nominations close Friday August 28.

How to nominate:

• Submit a few paragraphs about your nominee and how they make our communities stronger, kinder and more connected.
• Add your contact details, and the contact details of your nominee via email, letter, phone call or in person at Jordan Crugnale's office.
  Phone: 03 5672 4755, Email: bass@parliament.vic.gov.au. Mail: 9 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi 3995.