Frank Page has been recognised as citizen of the year, acknowleging his remarkable contribution to the local community.

Frank has contributed to the cultural, environmental, and civic life of Daylesford for more than four decades.

A Vietnam Veteran, heritage advocate and garden lover, Frank has led countless local initiatives through the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, Friends of Lake Daylesford, Christ Church Anglican, the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre, and regional tourism organisations.

His leadership is defined by creativity, cooperation, and persistence — qualities that have brought people together across generations and interests. From preserving heritage archives and restoring landscapes to hosting concert series and developing tourism strategy, Frank’s work has shaped both the character and community spirit of Daylesford.

Frank leads by example — always generous, charming, and genuinely interested in others. He brings people together and inspires action through collaboration rather than competition. His initiatives — whether a concert, a garden project, or a heritage rescue — always strengthen community ties.

He mentors others quietly, encourages civic participation, and embodies the best qualities of small-town leadership: humility, perseverance, and optimism.

He is admired for his warmth, intellect, and tireless service — a truly deserving nominee for Citizen of the Year 2026.

The Hepburn Shire Community Awards are a way for Council to acknowledge, celebrate and recognise the valuable contribution of community members and volunteers in our Shire.

Congratulations to award the other recipients*:

  • Event of the Year to Radical Fields (accepted by Ryan Kennedy). Radical Fields positively impacted the Shire community by engaging and encouraging community participation and celebrating our unique culture.
  • Hepburn Together to The Biggest Morning Tea (accepted by Bill and Lois Hetherington)
    The Biggest Morning Tea had a positive impact on the community by bringing people together to participate, promoting inclusiveness while recognising and valuing diversity, and building a more resilient community.
Image from Hepburn Shire Council news webpage

Mayor, Cr Tony Clark, congratulated all the award recipients and expressed his gratitude for their profound positive impact on our Shire.

“All our award recipients are well deserving and should be proud of what they have achieved. Our volunteers are the heart of our communities, and those who have made exceptional contributions deserve to be recognised.”

“Thank you to all our volunteers for the amazing contribution you make. Volunteers are the heart and glue of our community and Hepburn Shire’s punches above its weight. Well done everyone,” he said.

* There were no nominations for Young Citizen of the Year this year.

Image – Martha Haylett MP, Cr Tony Clark (Timmy), Frank Page, Lois Hetherington, Ryan Kennedy, Cr Shirley Cornish, Cr Pat Hockey and Catherine King MP