The 2025 North Sydney Community Awards took place on March 15, 2025, at Sub Base Platypus, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to their community. Hosted by the North Sydney Council, the event recognized those who support vulnerable community members, lead volunteer efforts, and advocate for sustainability.
Mayor Zoë Baker emphasized the importance of the awards, stating, “The North Sydney Community Awards celebrate the people who make our community stronger, greener, and more connected.” She noted that the stories of this year’s winners serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on the community.
The awards ceremony coincided with a citizenship ceremony on Australian Citizenship Day, where thirty new Australians were welcomed, reinforcing a sense of belonging and community spirit.
Meet the 2025 Community Champions
The awards highlighted several outstanding individuals across various categories, each demonstrating remarkable dedication to their causes.
Jacquelyn Wong and Christopher Milner shared the Community Builder Award. Wong has transformed The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability into an inclusive community garden, fostering engagement among residents. Milner’s Men’s Chat group at the Neutral Bay Community Centre has become a crucial support network, promoting connection and camaraderie among local men.
The Eco Warrior Award went to Carol Skyring, who has made significant strides in sustainability through her initiatives. As co-founder of The Sydney Library of Things and founder of the Fix-It Hub, Skyring has empowered hundreds of locals to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly living.
For the Living Legend Award, Alex Wilson and Lynne Cook were recognized for their long-standing contributions. Wilson, as President of the North Sydney RSL Sub Branch, has dedicated over twenty years to honoring veterans through advocacy and commemorative events. Cook has been a steadfast advocate for local bushland preservation, volunteering since 1998 with the Balls Head Reserve Bushcare Group to restore native habitats.
Trailblazing Initiatives and Future Leaders
The Trailblazer Award was awarded to Robert Frazer and Jill Arkell for their innovative community contributions. Frazer has educated numerous individuals on the importance of biodiversity through his passion for native bees, while Arkell has been a founding volunteer with Lifeline Connect at Stanton Library, providing crucial crisis support.
Young leaders Mia Sinosic-Cass and Jackson Chan received the Next Generation Award. Sinosic-Cass, a recent graduate from North Sydney Girls High School, founded Rise2Riches, a financial literacy club, and received the prestigious Hansen Scholarship from the University of Melbourne for her community contributions. Chan has played an essential role in the successful operation of the Northside Produce Market since 2022, demonstrating reliability and positivity throughout varying weather conditions.
The 2025 North Sydney Community Awards showcased the extraordinary efforts of individuals who embody the spirit of community. As Mayor Baker noted, these winners are shining examples of how one person’s actions can lead to widespread positive change. The event not only celebrated achievements but also served as an inspiration for others to engage in community service and support.
For those interested in hearing more about the winners, a video featuring their stories is available for viewing.
