These awards recognise residents who’ve made exceptional contributions to the Manningham community through volunteer, unpaid or paid work.
Key dates for Civic Award nominations and announcements
- Nominations open - Wednesday 22 May 2024
- Nominations close - Monday 22 July 2024
- Winners announced - Thursday 22 August 2024

Take a look at our 2024 winners
Meet this year's Manningham Civic Award winners.
Nominations
Find out how to nominate and how winners are selected.
Anyone can nominate for the Manningham Civic Awards.
To nominate someone for a Civic Award, complete the online nomination form . You can also pick up a hardcopy form from the Manningham Civic Centre.
Nominations must include:
- background about the nominee
- the reason for the nomination including how this person has contributed to the community and how the community benefited from these contributions
- the achievements of the nominee including a list of awards and acknowledgements
Attach copies of any photos, newspaper articles or documents that support your nominee’s contributions and achievements.
Provide at least one referee to support your nomination.
Each year, Manningham Council selects a judging panel to assess nominations and choose a recipient. The panel consists of three independent people, the Mayor and the Manager of the Grants and Events team.
Nominations for this year's Civic Awards open on Wednesday 22 May and close on Monday 22 July 2024.
Eligibility Criteria
Find out who can be nominated and what is required of the winners.
- Nominees must reside in Manningham.
- Self-nominations will not be accepted, except for community groups.
- Manningham Councillors, Manningham Council employees, State and Federal politicians are not eligible but are encouraged to nominate others.
- Award winners should be willing to share their achievements in the 12 months after winning, promote civic values and to reflect positively on the principles of the Manningham Civic Awards. This may include but is not limited to public speaking, promotional campaigns and having photos taken and displayed.
- The decision of the judging panel is final and no correspondence will be entered into in respect of the decision.
The Citizen of the Year Award is about recognising a Manningham resident who has made an outstanding contribution to improve the lives of our local community.
The Citizen of the Year should demonstrate a least five years of achievement in any field, including:
- community service
- community innovation
- philanthropy
- volunteer work
If you’d like to nominate someone as Citizen of the Year through an achievement made in a paid role, then please show us how your nominee has contributed to our community in addition to their paid duties.
Eligibility criteria
In addition to the general eligibility criteria above:
- Nominees must be over 25 years of age on 20 May 2024.
Selection criteria
The nomination must demonstrate that the nominee has:
- contributed to the community for a significant length of time – at least five years
- made a meaningful contribution to the community - above and beyond paid employment duties (if employed)
- been an inspirational role model within our community
- impacted our community widely through their contribution
- faced challenges and has shown the ability to go above and beyond.
The Young Citizen of the Year Award is about recognising a young Manningham resident who has made an outstanding contribution to improve the lives of our local community.
The Young Citizen of the Year should have demonstrated leadership qualities and have inspired others through their actions or by being a positive role model. The contribution can be made in any field, including:
- community service
- community innovation
- philanthropy
- volunteer work
If you’d like to nominate someone as The Young Citizen of the Year through an achievement made in a paid role, then please show us how your nominee has contributed to our community in addition to their paid duties.
Eligibility criteria
In addition to the general eligibility criteria above:
- Nominees must be under 25 years of age on 20 May 2024.
The Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year Award is about recognising a contribution made by a volunteer in the local community. This award honors Doreen Stoves for her inspirational work. Doreen worked for many years at Doncare and dedicated her life to helping others.
It highlights the contribution that is made by volunteers and those who often work behind the scenes to build a stronger and more caring community. The Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year award can be made in any field, including:
- community service
- civic engagement
- environment
- sport
- the arts
- education
- business
- advocacy
If you’d like to nominate someone for an achievement made through a paid role, please demonstrate how they’ve contributed to our community in addition to their paid duties.
The Community Organisation of the Year Award recognises community organisations, clubs or groups who have gone ‘above and beyond’ to improve the lives of the Manningham community. It can also recognise a specific project undertaken in the last 12 months that displays a positive impact to Manningham.
Nominees must be not-for-profit community organisations who’ve made a tangible difference to either:
- diversity
- acceptance and tolerance
- community spirit
- social connectedness in Manningham
Eligibility criteria
In addition to the general eligibility criteria above:
- Self-nominations by community groups are acceptable in this category.
The Sports Volunteer of the Year Award is about recognising a Manningham resident who has made an outstanding contribution by volunteering in our community.
This award recognises the contribution made by those who often work behind the scenes to build a stronger and more caring community. This award is specifically for those who volunteer to support sporting groups and clubs within our community.
If you’d like to nominate someone as Sports Volunteer of the Year through an achievement made in a paid role, then please show us how your nominee has contributed to the Manningham community.
All gardens begin with fabulous soil.
In this workshop we will take a deep dive into the world of soil and how to care for it. There are many simple ways to improve the soil in your garden and enable a productive and beautiful garden for all to enjoy.
This workshop will introduce you to the science of soil and provide tips and tricks on how to improve soil for a wildlife garden and benefit the environmental.
Bring a sample of your own soil to test pH.
Presenter: Charlotte Harrison from Sustainable Gardening Australia.
Supper is at 6.45pm, the seminar begins at 7.00pm sharp.
Registration is essential.
This is the second seminar of a four-part series on Gardening for Biodiversity. The series of workshops is run by Sustainable Gardening Australia and provides tips and tricks to garden for wildlife and support biodiversity in your local area.
Other events in this series
We can all participate in the movement to minimise waste.
To celebrate Plastic Free July, we'll be popping up at our local activity centres to chat with visitors about how we can all continue reducing our waste and in particular, single-use plastics.
Come along and say hello!
We can all participate in the movement to minimise waste.
To celebrate Plastic Free July, we'll be popping up at our local markets to chat with visitors about how we can all continue reducing our waste and in particular, single-use plastics.
Come along and say hello!
We can all participate in the movement to minimise waste.
To celebrate Plastic Free July, we'll be popping up at our local markets to chat with visitors about how we can all continue reducing our waste and in particular, single-use plastics.
Come along and say hello!
Ready to level up your composting effort? Come along and learn from the experts at Compost Community.
They will show you how to advance your composting journey, including:
- speed up your compost
- trouble shoot issues
- harvest and use your compost.
Learn some tips and tricks to help you push the envelope and recycle more organics at home.
Losing a pet can often be a very difficult and lonely experience. Not everyone understands the impact such a loss can have and the important role pets play in our lives.
If you, a child, a relative or a friend has lost a pet and feel the need to reach out for support, FOMDAC (Friends of Manningham Dogs and Cats) are hosting a Grief Support Group for anyone who wants to attend.
It can be any type of pet and it doesn’t matter how long ago you lost them. Attendees are encouraged to bring along a photo or a memory to share with the group.
Manningham Council is encouraging local seniors community groups and clubs to apply for a new Seniors Club Support Grants program, aimed at supporting initiatives that benefit and empower older people in Manningham.
These grants provide up to $8,000 in funding and can be used for a wide range of activities, including digital literacy programs, creative writing classes, or exercise sessions.
Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange invites clubs and group to apply for a grant.
“This is a chance for our dedicated seniors clubs and groups to receive support for new programs that boost the health and wellbeing of their members.” Cr Lange said.
“It’s also an opportunity to support initiatives where our older community, family members and carers to come together and make meaningful connections.
“A lack of social connection can really affect older individuals and their caregivers. These grants provide great opportunities to get involved in a safe and welcoming environment.”
Applications open on Monday 5 August and close on Wednesday 4 September.
Council is hosting a free grant writing workshop for existing Seniors Clubs members on Tuesday 6 August at the Manningham Function Centre, 699 Doncaster Road, Doncaster.
Bookings are essential and limited to two people per organisation.
To register, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/events/manningham-grant-writing-workshop-seniors-club-support-grant.
For more information or to apply, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/community-grants or contact the Community Grants team on 9840 9333 or grants@manningham.vic.gov.au.
Manningham Council has proudly honoured the exceptional individuals and organisations making a meaningful difference in the community at the 2024 Civic Awards.
Held last week, family and friends of the nominees gathered at the Manningham Function Centre for the awards ceremony.
The nominees were celebrated for their outstanding contributions, and winners were announced for their exceptional community service.
Brian Tyedin was awarded Manningham Citizen of the Year for his work with Rotary over the past 25 years.
“Being nominated is a reward in itself and to be recognised for what we are doing in the community,” Brian said.
“There are so many opportunities to volunteer in this community and so many people doing great things.
“I hope that by receiving this award, I can work with other organisations to achieve an even better outcome for Manningham and help others in the community,” Brian said.
This year there were two recipients of the Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year Award, Luke Bastian and Kate Gniel.
Luke was recognised for his outstanding commitment to the local Scouting community over the past two decades. Park Orchards-based mum of three, Kate, was recognised for her remarkable work in the community and with the Sharks Junior Football Club.
“Volunteering fills my heart and makes me feel content. My youngest son was diagnosed with leukemia a few years ago, and during that time, we were overwhelmed by the kindness of so many people,” Kate said.
“That’s when we discovered the true power of community and felt deeply connected. It inspired us to give back and help others in the same way we were helped.”
Meet the winners – 2024 Manningham Civic Awards
2024 Citizen of the Year – Brian Tyedin
Brian was awarded Citizen of the Year for his tireless support and service to the local community. He is a champion of the Rotary movement and has served Rotary and the Manningham community with distinction.
2024 Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year – Luke Bastian and Kate Gniel
Luke Bastian
Luke has played a crucial role in the Scouting community for over two decades. His remarkable contributions to Rotary and the Doncaster Baseball Club have also been significant. Luke is a dedicated member of the Manningham community and exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional citizen.
Kate Gniel
Kate is an outstanding individual who consistently makes remarkable impact in the community through her volunteering efforts. Over the past five years, Kate has dedicated her time and energy to enhancing and enriching the lives of others. In 2022 Kate became the first ever female president of the Sharks Junior Football Club and has focussed efforts on making the mental health of players and families first and foremost.
2024 Sports Volunteer of the Year – Anthony Milicia
Anthony dedicates himself to volunteering with Manningham Juventus Football Club as if it were a second job, setting a positive example and motivating others. His actions serve as a source of inspiration and consistently makes himself available to others.
Community Organisation of the Year – Rotary Club of Manningham City
The Rotary Club of Manningham City Inc. received its official charter on 1 July 2023, bringing together Rotary clubs and individuals with diverse talents who have contributed to Manningham for over 45 years. The Club’s dedication to serving the community spans across all demographics, capabilities and requirements and plays a crucial role in maintaining connections among people.
In addition to the 2024 winners, the following nominees were highly commended for their outstanding contributions:
Highly Commended, Sports Volunteer of the Year – Michael James
Michael’s dedication to enhancing the Sharks Football Club has positively impacted the lives of many. His strong belief in fostering sporting values and essential life skills underscores his passion for nurturing well-rounded individuals. Michael has introduced programs that have contributed to the overall growth and success of the club’s players.
Highly Commended, Community Organisation of the Year – Manningham Toy Library
Founded 39 years ago, the Manningham Toy Library has served as a vital resource for the Templestowe Lower community, positively impacting the lives of numerous families. The Library’s focus on inclusivity and accessibility sees it offer a wide selection of toys that address different needs and developmental phases, highlighting its commitment to supporting the entire community.
To find out more, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/manningham-civic-awards.
Are you covered for emergencies at home?
We are holding a home insurance workshop with Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC), a multidisciplinary legal service that works to prevent problems and support community resilience.
The session will cover important topics including:
- having an up-to-date insurance policy
- the right insurance amount for your home and contents
- what to look out for in your existing insurance policy.
Participants are encouraged to bring insurance policy documents for personal reference during the session.
It's free to register but bookings are essential.
Are you covered for emergencies at home?
We are holding a home insurance workshop with Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC), a multidisciplinary legal service that works to prevent problems and support community resilience.
The session will cover important topics including:
- having an up-to-date insurance policy
- the right insurance amount for your home and contents
- what to look out for in your existing insurance policy.
Participants are encouraged to bring insurance policy documents for personal reference during the session.
It's free to register but bookings are essential.
We are a social running group who welcomes everyone regardless of age, fitness level or ability. ...
Work on your Spring fitness campaign with Ruffey Runners.
We are a social running group who welcomes everyone regardless of age, fitness level or ability.
Come and join us for two free sessions where you will be guided and supported by our experienced coaches.
Build your health and fitness while connecting with our fun loving and enthusiastic group of runners.
Our sessions run every Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 7.15pm - 8.15pm
We look forward to seeing you at one of our sessions.
Barbara Hepworth was one of the leading British artists of her generation and the first woman sculptor to achieve international recognition.
Barbara Hepworth: In Equilibrium brings her remarkable achievements to Australian audiences for the first time.
Forty works from prestigious international and national collections, including sculptures in stone, wood, bronze and other metals and a select group of paintings will be on display.
Developed in consultation with the Hepworth Estate, the exhibition has been designed by award-winning architecture firm Studio Bright.
Entry to Heide is free for Manningham residents.
Image by Clytie Meredith.
Playhouse Players' “Dracula the Play” starts on World Dracula Day on Friday 26 May at the Doncaster Playhouse. ...
Dracula comes to Manningham!
Playhouse Players' “Dracula the Play” opens on World Dracula Day on Friday 26 May at the Doncaster Playhouse.
Local Director, Peter T Nathan is bringing to the stage Bram Stoker’s iconic work adapted by Steven Dietz.
Dietz’s 1996 version remains faithful to Bram Stoker’s original story. It evokes the same chilling tone created by Stoker and emulates the style of language common at the end of the 19th Century.
There will be special prizes on opening night for best dressed and themed food and drink.
Workshop...
This course builds upon the skills learned in Smartphones and Devices - The Basics, and Smartphones and Devices - Tips & Tricks.
This course will provide the technical knowledge and skills required for work in an office environment, or to progress onto further study.
You will build your skills to deliver professional presentations and create portfolios using a variety of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
The topics include:
- Familiarising yourself with Office 365
- Word - getting started
- Word - intermediate
- Word - a little more
- Excel - getting started
- Excel - intermediate
- Excel - a little more
- PowerPoint
The Local Government Act 2020 requires candidates in a council election to return election campaign donations. Returns must be:
- done within 40 days after election day
- to the Chief Executive Officer.
Campaign donation returns on gifts to, and on behalf of candidates must contain the amount or value equal to, or exceeding the gift disclosure threshold of $500. This includes the amount or value of:
- goods
- services
- in-kind support.
Election campaign return details relate to the donation period and during an election campaign.
The donation period begins either:
- 30 days after the last general election for the council
- 30 days after the last election for the council at which the person required to give the election campaign donation return was a candidate
- whichever is the later and ending 30 days after election day in the current election for the council.
Within 14 days after the deadline for completed returns, summaries will be available on our website. They’ll be available until the entitlement date for the next general election.
Our role and purpose
We have established a Heritage Advisory Committee (HAC) that includes representatives from the community, historical societies, councillors and council officers. The committee provides advice to Council on the conservation and promotion of, and education about heritage places within Manningham. This includes:
- considering grant applications received under the Heritage Restoration Fund.
When do we meet
The Committee generally meets every three months.
How to contact us
If you have any questions, contact us.
An interpreter service is available on 9840 9355.
We can all participate in the movement to minimise waste.
To celebrate Plastic Free July, we'll be popping up at our local activity centres to chat with visitors about how we can all continue reducing our waste and in particular, single-use plastics.
Come along and say hello!
We can all participate in the movement to minimise waste.
To celebrate Plastic Free July, we'll be popping up at our local activity centres to chat with visitors about how we can all continue reducing our waste and in particular, single-use plastics.
Come along and say hello!
Join Open Table a not-for-profit community organisation for an informative and fun cooking class showcasing practical ways to reduce your food waste.
Learn how to make gnocchi from stale bread as well as tips and tricks for meal planning and food storage.
Recipe and ingredients list will be provide prior to the class so you can cook along at home!