This award recognises an individual whose leadership, through action, has made a meaningful difference in areas such as disaster recovery, social equity or grassroots community service.  Someone who is found at the front line, embedded in their community and driving change from the ground up. (Determined by popular vote)

Includes a $1,000 donation to a Gippsland based charity/initiative of the recipient's choice.

Nomination criteria:

• Open to all

• Based in or actively serving the Gippsland region

• Has demonstrated hands-on, grassroots leadership in areas such as disaster recovery, social equity or community service

• Their impact is visible and felt directly by the communities they serve

• Leads through action rather than position or title

This award recognises a senior industry leader who has made a positive contribution to the region. Whether it be mentoring the next generation, advocating for local interests or helping to build a stronger, more connected community. A nominee who leads with purpose and whose influence is felt beyond their own organisation.

Includes a $1,000 donation to a Gippsland based charity/initiative of the recipient's choice.

Nomination criteria:

• Open to all

• A senior leader based in or significantly contributing to the Gippsland region

• Has used their influence to advocate for regional interests and create opportunities for others

• Demonstrated commitment to mentoring or developing local talent

• Has driven initiatives that have strengthened the region's industries or communities

This award recognises an emerging leader aged 18–40 who is driving meaningful change in the region. We're looking for Gippsland's leaders of tomorrow who are already delivering tangible results today.  

Includes a $1,000 donation to a Gippsland based charity/initiative of the recipient's choice.

Nomination criteria:

• Open to all

• Aged between 18–40 at the time of nomination

• Based in or actively contributing to the Gippsland region

• Has demonstrated clear and tangible leadership impact in their community, industry or sector

• Shows potential for continued growth and long-term commitment to the region

More than an acknowledgement, this award provides a $1,000 grant to fund a specific community initiative or charity, providing a tangible financial boost to a local project or charity making a real difference in the region. 

Nomination criteria:

• Based in or serving the Gippsland region

• Has a clearly defined community initiative or project requiring funding to progress

• Can demonstrate the potential impact and feasibility of the proposed initiative

• Shows evidence of community support or need for the project

• Must be a registered charity or initiative

Awarded to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership by significantly contributing to environmental causes in the region, and inspiring others to do the same. 

Includes a $1,000 donation (sponsored by the Gippsland Climate Change Network) to a Gippsland based charity/initiative of the recipient's choice.

Nomination criteria:

• Open to all

• Based in or actively contributing to the Gippsland region

• Has demonstrated leadership in environmental causes or sustainability initiatives

• Their work has had a visible and positive impact on the region's natural environment

• Inspires and encourages others to take action on environmental issues

This award recognises a GCLP graduate who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a sustained commitment to the region.  Someone whose contribution to the region reflects the very best of what GCLP represents.

Includes a $1,000 donation to a Gippsland based charity/initiative of the recipient's choice.

Nomination criteria:

• Must be a graduate of the Gippsland Community Leadership Program (GCLP)

• Has demonstrated sustained leadership and commitment to the Gippsland region since completing the program

• Has made a measurable and lasting contribution to their community, industry or sector

• Continues to actively engage with and invest in the Gippsland region