DUNGOG has been named the Overall Winner of the Keep Australia Beautiful (KAB) NSW 2026 Tidy Towns Awards, held in Orange on Saturday, 17 October.
The prestigious award, presented by NSW Governor Margaret Beazley, recognises outstanding volunteer commitment, community leadership and environmental action.
As the overall winner, Dungog will represent New South Wales at the national Australian Tidy Towns Awards in Western Australia.
Dungog has also received a perpetual trophy and earned the honour of hosting the 2027 KAB NSW Tidy Towns Awards.
The celebrations did not stop there, with several local initiatives and community members receiving recognition.
Paterson Hub and Harvest, an initiative of the Paterson Community Builders Program, received the Community Spirit and Inclusion Award.
The project brought locals together to establish a sustainable community garden and gathering place, helping to reduce social isolation, strengthen community connections and grow local food.
Dungog also received the Biodiversity Conservation Award for its Myall Creek Rehabilitation – A Rediscovery project facilitated by Sustaining the Williams Valley Inc., a local land care group.
Local environmental advocate Michelle Dado-Millyn was recognised with the Local Heroes Award.
Michelle established Boomerang Bags Dungog 10 years ago and also runs Plastic Free Dungog, whose efforts contributed to another win for the town in the Plastic Free Communities Award.
In a particularly special connection, Dungog Shire Councillor James Campbell largely attributes his interest in the environment to Michelle.
While attending Dungog High School, James was an enthusiastic participant in an environmental activism program run by Michelle.
He is currently studying an Environmental Science and Management degree at Newcastle University and entered local politics, becoming Dungog Shire’s youngest councillor.
“Councillor James Campbell made us proud during the Awards acceptance speech,” said Julie Overton.
Residents will also have the opportunity to see the Tidy Towns flags, which will be presented to the Dungog Information Centre and Dungog Shire Council.
The awards represent an outstanding achievement for the volunteers, community organisations and residents whose commitment continues to make a difference across the Dungog Shire.
Dungog Shire Mayor Digby Rayward said the win recognised the dedication of local people who work together to care for their town and its environment.
“This is a wonderful achievement for Dungog and a proud moment for our whole community,” Cr Rayward said.
“Behind this award are people who give their time, share their knowledge and roll up their sleeves to make a difference. Their commitment can be seen in the projects protecting our waterways, reducing waste and bringing people together.
“What makes these efforts so special is that they are sustained over many years. Our volunteers and community groups see what needs to be done and keep working towards it.
“On behalf of Council, I congratulate everyone who has contributed to this success. This award belongs to you.”
By Megan WILLIS
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