The 2010 awards will be divided into seven sections, including the shire’s citizen of the year and youth of the year, as well as sporting, volunteer, cultural and environmental honours.

Australia Day is an important milestone that helps focus public attention on the achievements of the nation.

Wyong Shire Council’s awards are designed to allow residents to nominate members of the community who are considered worthy of recognition. Past award winners have often been unsung heroes who did not look for acknowledgement.

Winners in 2010 will receive their awards at Australia Day celebrations in Wyong on January 26.

Nomination forms can be easily downloaded from Wyong Shire Council’s website at http://www.wyong.nsw.gov.au/whats on/special_events_australia_day20 10.html. The forms can also be collected from council’s customer service section; shire libraries; or Little Coast Kids Care and Education Centres.

Nominations must be sent to council by the close of business on Friday, December 14.

The full list of awards is:

• Wyong Shire Citizen of the Year;

• Youth of the Year;

• Cultural Award;

• Community Volunteer Award;

• Sportsperson Award;

• Junior sportsperson Award (18 years and younger); and

• Environmental Award.

Nominations must be accompanied by a written submission of up to 200 words that explains how the nominee has both shown excellence in the category and contributed to the community.

If you nominate someone for an award, you can also support the submission with photographs and references.