Published on Tuesday, 27 January 2026 at 10:41:30 AM
Congratulations to the Town of Cottesloe 2026 Citizen of the Year Award winners, announced on Monday, 26 January at a Citizenship Ceremony and Citizen of the Year Awards event held at the Town of Cottesloe.
The Town of Cottesloe Citizen of the Year award was presented to Katrina Tiller, in recognition of her dedicated volunteer work supporting local sporting clubs and the school community, leading initiatives that foster inclusion, connection, and wellbeing for children and families. Katrina has been an integral part of the Cottesloe community for more than a decade, contributing tirelessly through her volunteer work across numerous local organisations. She has given extensive service to the Cottesloe Junior Rugby Club, the Cottesloe Magpies, and the Cottesloe Primary School Parents Association. Through her dedication, Katrina has organised and delivered community events, fundraising initiatives, and sporting programs that bring people together and strengthen local connections. From coordinating canteen rosters and organising club social events to securing grants that enhance facilities and resources, her efforts have helped ensure these organisations remain well resourced, inclusive, and welcoming. Katrina consistently seeks ways to support others and has made a lasting positive impact, fostering a strong sense of belonging, pride, and community spirit throughout the community.
The Town would also like to congratulate Citizen of the Year award finalist Andrew Packard for his involvement and leadership in PodSquad, a welcoming, inclusive ocean‑swimming community that promotes health, wellbeing, and connection for people of all ages and abilities.
The Town of Cottesloe Senior Community Citizen of the Year award was presented to Gail Robertson in recognition of her significant contribution to the Cottesloe and wider community through Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club. Gail has been a dedicated member of Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club since joining in 1981, shortly after women became eligible for membership. Over more than 40 years of service, she has made an outstanding contribution to the Club in a wide range of roles. Gail served as an Age Group Manager for over 14 years, commenced beach patrols after attaining her Bronze Medallion, and later progressed to the role of Patrol Captain. After completing her Surf Rescue Certificate Instructor qualification, she supported and mentored many members in achieving their surf education awards.
In addition, Gail has been a long-standing competitor and a committed volunteer at Club events. She continues to give her time generously, remaining a familiar presence at the Club every Sunday during the season. In recognition of her exceptional service to both the Club and the broader community, Gail was awarded Life Membership in 2025.
The Town of Cottesloe Young Community Citizen of the Year award was presented to Imogen Gracie in recognition of her significant contribution to the Cottesloe and wider community through Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club. Imogen has been a dedicated member of the Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club since the age of eight. She has served as a patrolling member since 2018 and stepped into a leadership role as an Age Group Manager at just 16 years old. Since last season, Imogen has held the role of Junior Activities Officer, where she plans and coordinates weekly Nippers sessions for more than 300 children aged 5 to 13. In addition, she mentors Age Group Managers and delivers parent training sessions to support water safety during Nippers activities. Imogen also coordinates several of the Club’s major events, including Club Championships, the Club Marathon, and the Little Nippers Carnival. As a member of the Club’s management board, she contributes to strategic decision making while continuing to volunteer across many areas of the Club. Her support extends to managing the apparel shop and orders, organising Nippers social activities, and assisting with club marketing, among many other tasks. Imogen’s commitment, leadership, and willingness to contribute wherever needed make her an invaluable member of the Club.
The Town of Cottesloe Award for Active Citizenship (group or event) was awarded to Cottesloe Parkrun. Cottesloe Parkrun was established ten years ago by a small group of local residents and has since grown into a thriving weekly event supported by a committed team of Run Directors and volunteers. Each Saturday, up to 170 participants come together for this free, volunteer led community run, promoting physical health, social connection, and youth engagement. Set in an iconic coastal location, Cottesloe Parkrun also attracts visiting participants from across Australia and around the world. The dedication of Cottesloe Parkrun volunteers makes it possible for people to take part in a fun, accessible recreational activity every week, which for many is as much a social gathering as it is a run or walk. The event is proudly inclusive, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities. It also provides valuable opportunities for youth volunteering, with local high school students regularly contributing to volunteer roles and gaining meaningful community experience.
The Town would also like to congratulate Active Citizenship award finalist Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club’s 2025 ANZAC Day Dawn Landing ceremony. This event is being recognised for its powerful community tribute marking 110 years since the Gallipoli landing, bringing together surf boat crews, volunteers, and local organisations to honour the service and sacrifice of Australian men and women through a dawn re‑enactment and commemorative ceremony on Cottesloe Beach.
The Town of Cottesloe congratulates our 2026 Community Citizen of the Year Award winners and finalists, and thanks them for their continued contribution to the community, recognising their ongoing dedication, leadership, and positive impact.
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