The 2025 We Are Brimbank Awards were presented at a special ceremony hosted by Mayor Cr Thuy Dang on Thursday 22 May 2025.
The annual awards recognise the exceptional contributions, hard work and determination of individuals, volunteers, organisations and community groups making a positive difference in the community. Brimbank Volunteers were also honoured, with certificates for years of service.
“Each year it is a great pleasure to celebrate and reflect on the amazing contribution made by individuals, organisations, businesses and volunteers to Brimbank,” said Mayor Cr Thuy Dang.
The We Are Brimbank Awards celebrate our outstanding community leaders, residents and workers, and the exceptional contributions they make to the City of Brimbank.
“Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. Just being nominated shows the significant impact you have already achieved. We celebrate your vision, creativity, hard work, and determination.
“Brimbank is a better place, thanks to your efforts,” said Mayor Cr Thuy Dang.
In addition to the awards in seven categories, this year a Mayoral Appreciation Award was bestowed on local identity and volunteer rubbish collector Julian Reynolds, in appreciation for his tireless efforts to keep Brimbank beautiful, free of litter and rubbish over many years.
2025 We Are Brimbank Award winners
Citizen of the Year: Dr. Ashima Soni
Dr. Ashima Soni is a dedicated Senior Clinical Psychologist with over 14 years of experience, specialising in anxiety, depression, and stress management. Passionate about community wellbeing, Ashima is committed to empowering those facing family violence and perinatal challenges, particularly within culturally diverse communities.
The Citizen of the Year is someone whose exceptional dedication, selflessness and leadership has made a profound impact in Brimbank, embodies the spirit of community, has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others, uplift our neighbourhoods and foster a sense of unity and belonging.
Young Citizen of the Year: Billy Chen
A member of the Victorian Youth Congress, the Western Chances STAR Committee, and a former Chair of Brimbank Youth Council, Billy Chen is a dedicated young leader committed to improving outcomes for his local community. Billy is passionate about ensuring that young people in Brimbank have the same opportunities as their peers across Victoria.
The Young Citizen of the Year is a remarkable young citizen who inspires all with their passion and commitment to creating a brighter future for Brimbank.
Mayoral Appreciation Award (New): Julian Reynolds
“Julian has poured time and energy into his volunteer work, collecting litter and rubbish from the sides of roads and highways. He has acted on the serious issue of litter and rubbish, and our roads, paths and parks are better as a result,” said Mayor Cr Thuy Dang.
“At the moment we are fighting an increase in illegal dumped rubbish, which harms our environment and costs rate payers money. Julian’s hard work and determination are an example to all of us of how much we can achieve.”
The Mayoral Appreciation Award is selected for special recognition from all the nominations by the Mayor of Brimbank.
Arts, Culture or Tourism Award: Aunty Lee-Anne Clarke
As a proud Kirrae Whurrong woman and a Traditional and Contemporary Koorie Artist, Aunty Lee-Anne’s connection to Country profoundly influences her work, serving as an extension and expression of ‘Country’ and Spirit. Through her love of drawing and painting, she finds a space for free expression and self-acceptance.
The Arts, Culture or Tourism Award recognises and celebrates the fantastic projects, events, groups or businesses that showcase and develop our communities’ rich cultural fabric.
Community Engagement Award: Brimbank Community Hubs: St Albans Primary School, St Albans Heights Primary School, Stevensville Primary School, Deer Park North Primary School
The Brimbank Community Hubs are safe and welcoming spaces embedded within primary schools that support culturally and linguistically diverse families, particularly mothers with young children. These hubs foster social cohesion, early years support, educational opportunities, and pathways to employment.
The Community Engagement Award acknowledges and celebrates remarkable projects, events, groups, or businesses that have made a significant contribution towards fostering a welcoming, engaging, and interconnected community.
Environment or Sustainability Award: Albion Primary School
Albion Primary School has proudly served the community for nearly 100 years, with 2026 marking its centenary. In 2024, Albion Primary School achieved 5-star accreditation through ResourceSmart Schools, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and excellence. The school is guided by the values of Respect, Care, Honesty, Learning, and Achievement.
The Environment or Sustainability Award acknowledges and celebrates remarkable projects, events, groups, or businesses that have motivated residents to actively contribute to and preserve our environment for the benefit of future generations.
Sports and Wellbeing Award: Dance 4 All
Since 2021, Dance 4 All has built a safe, judgment-free community that fosters understanding and mutual support underpinned by its mission to provide equal access to dance classes, performances, and social networks for people with disabilities – because “Dance is 4 everybody!”
This Sports and Wellbeing Award celebrates those who have made significant contributions to enhancing physical activity, mental health and overall wellbeing in our community. Whether they’re championing for youth sports, organising fitness programs, or advocating for inclusive recreational opportunities, we want to recognise their positive impact.
Community Group of the Year: Helping Hands Mission
Helping Hands Mission began as a small mobile op shop in 2007 that has evolved into a crucial support network for over 10,000 local families. Helping Hands provides essential items to those in need, rescues food, and keeps quality goods out of landfill. At Helping Hands, everyone is welcome, and every contribution makes a difference.
The Community Group of the Year is for a remarkable community group that has demonstrated outstanding dedication and service, leaving a positive impact on the lives of residents in Brimbank. This could be through organising events, providing essential services, or championing initiatives that have brought community together.
A full list of Volunteer Awards along with photos will be posted next week, along with a wrap-up of Volunteer Week activities.
