Citizen of the Year Awards, 2026

Winners were announced at by Mayor Trenton Brown at Council’s Citizen of the Year Awards Ceremony which took place on Monday 26 January 2026 Mayor Brown prior to the Meadowbank Park Australia Day celebrations.

Citizen of the Year
Keiran Gibson
Keiran Gibson served as Ryde SES Unit Commander for 18 years, becoming the longest-serving leader in its 50-year history and the youngest ever appointed in SES NSW at age 24. Under his leadership, the unit grew from 30 to over 100 volunteers and responded to thousands of storm, flood and bushfire events. A highly decorated volunteer, Keiran has earned multiple state and national awards for service and continues to inspire through training, mentoring and emergency management leadership.

Young Citizen of the Year
Christian Lane
Christian Lane, School Captain of Epping Boys High School, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and service through record-breaking fundraising, wellbeing initiatives and sporting excellence. In 2025, he led campaigns raising over $47,000 for cancer research and delivered the ANZAC Day address for Ryde. Founder of “Whistle Wellness”, he mentors young referees and champions mental health through Movember and the Push-Up Challenge. A national baseball representative and dedicated community volunteer, Christian embodies humility, teamwork and a commitment to inspiring others.

Sportsperson of the Year
Dr Yagiz Aksoy
Dr Yagiz Aksoy has led the Macquarie University Table Tennis Club for 11 years, transforming it into one of Sydney’s most inclusive community sports programs with more than 200 members. A medical doctor and volunteer, he promotes table tennis as preventive healthcare and social connection. Under his leadership, the club nurtures elite athletes, empowers youth through coaching roles and will soon offer Parkinson’s therapy sessions. Nationally recognised for innovation, Dr Aksoy represents how sport can drive wellbeing and inclusion.

Environmental Citizen of the Year
Sam Star
Sam Star is a legally blind senior who personifies community spirit through his proactive care for the local environment. Navigating his neighborhood with a white cane, he trims overgrown branches, organises Cleanup Australia Day events and regularly collects litter and recyclables. At his social housing building, Sam has transformed a garden bed into a vibrant space, planting and nurturing flowers to create a welcoming entry. His dedication to safety, tidiness and sustainability makes him an inspiring local hero.