Published on Monday, 26 January 2026 at 9:51:26 AM
Generosity, commitment and a passion for helping people underpins the winners of the 2026 Albany Community Citizen of the Year Awards.
Albany Citizen of the Year has been awarded to Guiseppe (Joe) Lembo, whose commitment to supporting local community groups has made a lasting impact.
Known for opening his venue at no cost to service organisations, Joe also willingly employs and mentors young people entering the hospitality industry.
His broader community contributions include ongoing support for Albany Community Hospice, the Albany Italian Club and the Around the Houses Albany Classic Event.
The Young Community Citizen of the Year Award has been presented to Peter Finlay for his exceptional leadership in music and youth development.
Peter has mentored hundreds of young people through his roles with About FACE Youth Choir and About FACE Kids Camp, alongside long-standing leadership with the Albany Wind Ensemble and involvement in Scripture Union Youth Camps.
Dorothy Field is the recipient of the Senior Citizen of the Year Award, recognised for more than two decades of service across faith, sport, arts and community welfare, including long-term volunteering with Albany Community Hospice and St Vincent de Paul.
The Active Citizenship Group or Event Award was awarded to the Community Bank All Abilities Ball, organised by Carol and Brian Appleby, celebrating inclusion and connection within the disability community.
The prestigious Annette Knight Community Citizen of the Year Award has been awarded to Carol Pettersen OAM JP, recognising her outstanding volunteer leadership since 1975 and her enduring work empowering Aboriginal communities through policy, education, justice and employment.
Mayor of Albany Greg Stocks said the awards highlighted the extraordinary people who quietly shape the city every day.
“These recipients reflect the very best of Albany — people who lead with compassion, give their time freely and work tirelessly to make our community stronger, more inclusive and more connected,” Mayor Stocks said.
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