Megan Dover has been named the Shoalhaven Citizen of the Year at the 2026 Shoalhaven Australia Day Awards, held on January 26 in Mollymook. Dover, co-founder of Salt Care, received the accolade for her extensive work addressing homelessness and social disadvantage in the region. She emphasized that her inspiration comes from the everyday resilience of community members facing adversity.
Dover highlighted the strength of single mothers, individuals living with disabilities, and those overcoming abusive backgrounds as the true motivators behind her efforts. “It’s those who continue to get out of bed every single morning and carry heavy loads that I can’t possibly imagine,” she remarked. “They are my inspiration.”
The awards recognized a total of 37 nominees across four categories, with presentations made by Shoalhaven’s Australia Day Ambassador, Dr. David Kirkpatrick. Mayor Patricia White commended all nominees and recipients for their significant contributions to the community, noting that this year’s awards were particularly special as all recipients were women whose leadership has had a profound impact.
Among the other award recipients, Bella Dewsbury-Love was honored as the Shoalhaven Young Citizen of the Year. Her commitment to supporting young people through her role as a program leader with Sonder Youth and her volunteer work with the Junior Albatross Musical Theatre Company were key factors in her selection.
The Volunteer of the Year award went to Narelle Barry, recognized for her 48 years of dedicated service at the Berry Shoalhaven Heads Magpies Rugby League Club. She is well-known for her welcoming presence and her famous beef and gravy rolls, which have become a staple for players and supporters alike.
Additionally, Sophie Phillips, from the Bomaderry Football Club, was awarded Sports Achiever of the Year for her dynamic leadership as both a coach and captain. Phillips’ enthusiasm and commitment to the sport have inspired her teammates and the wider community.
Megan Dover’s work with Salt Care has transformed the organization into a respected entity providing essential services such as safe shelter, assisted housing, a mobile response vehicle, and a food store operating on a gold coin donation basis. “All of the programs and portfolios are about standing beside people; helping them heal, become whole, and move into contributing to their community,” she explained.
Dover expressed her surprise at receiving the award, viewing it as a recognition of the collective effort involved in community service. “It’s acknowledgment for the many unseen hours and tears that go into doing something like this,” she said. “It’s not just an award for me, it’s an award for everyone connected to this work, everyone involved, and everyone who puts in the hard yards.”
The Shoalhaven Australia Day Awards continue to spotlight individuals who make a significant difference in their communities, showcasing the power of local leadership and inspiring others to contribute positively.
