THE achievements of local volunteers, young leaders and community groups were celebrated on Wednesday, May 28 at the 2025 Bass Coast Community Awards, held at the Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club.
Proceedings began at 6pm, with Bass Coast Shire Council CEO Greg Box opening the night by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land. In his opening remarks, Mr Box reflected on the importance of recognising the efforts of community volunteers, particularly during National Volunteer Week.
He told the audience he understood the value that volunteers bring to the region and emphasised the Council’s desire to celebrate them for their ongoing contributions. He then invited the previous year’s Community Leader Award winner, Mandy Chancellor, to the stage.
Ms Chancellor spoke passionately about how the award had impacted her life and opened new opportunities.
“The award has allowed me to stand in front of community groups and share my experiences,” she said.
She continued by reflecting on what true leadership means.
“What makes a good leader comes from the heart. Good leaders don’t necessarily need years of study. A good leader needs to be authentic.”
She closed her speech by acknowledging the impact of everyone present. “If you are here tonight, that means you’ve made a difference.”
Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead then took to the stage to conduct the awards ceremony.
“Being nominated is a testament to your contributions,” she said, adding, “All nominees do it because they love it.”
The first award of the evening was the Sports Leadership Award. It was presented to the Bass Coast Breakers, a women’s football team led by women, for women. The team was recognised primarily for its commitment to inclusion and its standout work in the LGBTQIA+ space, particularly through their annual Pride Match. In a stand against discrimination, the club painted their 50-metre line in rainbow colours, raised giant pride flags behind the goals, and even wore a custom-designed pride guernsey created by the players themselves.
The Next Generation Leader Award was presented to 12-year-old Isla Fillery, who has already made a name for herself as a leader in social justice. Isla’s speech reflected her positivity and radiant spirit, illustrating her commitment to the community.
“This community means everything to me,” she said.
“This award isn’t just mine; it’s for all of us who show up and give our all.”
The Community Group Award went to the Bass Valley Community Group, a not-for-profit that supports residents through an impressive range of services. With just four staff and around 37 volunteers, the group offers aged and disability care through a Planned Activity Group, a weekly community shopping bus, volunteering opportunities, and regular programs such as computer club, cooking classes, genealogy group, and even line dancing. They also provide free internet and facilitate a friendship group aimed at reducing social isolation.
The final award of the night was the Community Leader Award, which was presented to Sarah Pedersen. A full-time teacher at Newhaven College, Ms Pedersen also co-founded Shades of Pink, a breast cancer services foundation that has raised over $600,000. She is also a committed volunteer at the Phillip Island Football Netball Club and was visibly emotional as she accepted the award.
“To hear those words spoken about you is almost like an out-of-body experience,” she said.
“I’m just so humbled that my amazing friend nominated me,” she added, holding back tears of joy.
