Grassroots champions honoured at annual Community Awards

Local role models and grassroots heroes were recognised at the 2026 City of Karratha Community Citizen of the Year Awards, held on 26 January.

24 nominations were received across four award categories with winners announced at the community celebration hosted by the City of Karratha and supported by Rio Tinto and Auspire - Australia Day Council (WA), recognising individuals and organisations who make a meaningful contribution to the region.

Michael Whittaker was named 2026 Community Citizen of the Year for his long-standing community leadership with a strong record of volunteering across youth sport, emergency services and local governance. He has supported multiple local sporting clubs, established the Marine Rescue Cadets program, and contributed to regional decision-making through advisory boards. His service, including humanitarian aid and 18 years with the Metropolitan Fire Service, further demonstrate his commitment to helping others. Michael's contributions have had a lasting, positive impact on the community.

Ella Dale received the 2026 Young Community Citizen of the Year Award in recognition of her leadership at school and her commitment to sustainability, youth empowerment and community wellbeing.

Elizabeth Smith was awarded 2026 Senior Community Citizen of the Year for her decades of dedication to strengthening the Roebourne community through cultural leadership, mentoring and community support.

The Karratha Basketball Association was named the 2026 Active Citizenship Award recipient for its ongoing contribution to community sport, youth development and inclusion across the Pilbara.

City of Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott said the awards highlight the strength of community spirit across the City's towns.

"These awards give us the opportunity to recognise the people and organisations who consistently give their time and energy to support others," Mayor Scott said.

"I congratulate all of our nominees and winners and thank them for the positive impact they have across our communities."

"Their efforts, whether through volunteering, leadership or community sport, play an important role in making the City of Karratha a great place to live."

AWARD WINNERS

Michael Whittaker
Community Citizen of the Year

Michael is a dedicated community leader whose volunteer work spans youth sport, emergency services, and local governance. He has supported Speedway, BMX, Motocross, and Wickham Netball - where a Best and Fairest trophy bears his name. As a Marine Rescue Port Walcott leader, he established the Marine Rescue Cadets program, creating vital youth opportunities. He also organises community events in Point Samson and serves on multiple advisory boards, strengthening regional decision-making. His humanitarian aid in Bali and 18 years in the Metropolitan Fire Service further demonstrate his commitment to helping others. Michael's contributions have had a lasting, positive impact.

Ella Dale
Young Community Citizen of the Year

Ella Dale is an outstanding young leader whose impact spans her school and the wider Pilbara community. As Head Girl of St Luke's College, she leads over 700 students, mentors younger peers, and represents the school at major events. She founded Greener Karratha, donating more than 200 native trees and establishing a school nursery, earning statewide media recognition. Selected for the Future Female Leadership Program and the Soulyard Youth Performance Squad, Ella applies her leadership skills to sustainability, community wellbeing, and youth empowerment. Her awards, including the ADF Long Tan Award, highlight her initiative, innovation, and lasting community contribution.

Elizabeth Smith
Senior Community Citizen of the Year

Beth Smith has dedicated her life to strengthening the Roebourne community. Co-founding the Mingullatharndo dry community in 1990, she created a safe, culturally supportive space for people seeking change. Beth also established a community garden nursery, nurtures children through church programs, and runs the annual Elders' Birthday Celebration. Through decades of volunteering, mentoring, and leadership, she has fostered connection, cultural pride, and healthier living, leaving a lasting impact on Elders, families, and the wider community.

Karratha Basketball Association
Active Citizenship

The Karratha Basketball Association (KBA) runs one of the Pilbara's largest community sports programs, engaging thousands of participants each week. It provides youth employment, supports referee and coach development, and offers regional 3x3 activations to make basketball accessible across local towns. KBA sends over 150 young athletes to tournaments annually, supported by strong fundraising and partnerships. Initiatives like mental health workshops, Harmony Round, and volunteer recognition strengthen community connection. Led by Competition Manager Rebecca Cohen and dedicated volunteers, KBA fosters inclusion, growth, and resilience, making it a standout community organisation.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Dereka (Dee) Van Beek
Highly Commended Community Citizen of the Year

Dereka (Dee) Van Beek has over 20 years' experience in community services and is the Founder and driving force behind the Karratha Women's Place, creating vital programs to support women's social connection, wellbeing, and empowerment. Dee personally dedicated thousands of volunteer hours, funded programs, and developed initiatives including therapeutic support, community expos, and the "My Story of Being a Mum" book. Through her vision, resilience, and leadership, Dee has transformed women's services in Karratha, fostering inclusion, support, and opportunity across the region.

Luke Kofalvi
Highly Commended Young Community Citizen of the Year

Since joining the fire brigade as a teenager, Luke has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to community safety. Volunteering with both his primary brigade and the Nickol Bay Bush Fire Brigade, he responds to emergencies, mentors Youth Emergency Services cadets, and educates the public on fire preparedness. At just 21, he became Apparatus Officer, ensuring equipment readiness and operational efficiency. Luke's courage, leadership, and dedication have strengthened emergency response capabilities and inspired the next generation of community-focused volunteers.

Karratha Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service
Highly Commended Active Citizenship

The Karratha Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service is a wholly volunteer-run brigade dedicated to emergency response and community wellbeing. In 2025, they raised over $12,500 for local and national charities through fundraisers, open days, and awareness campaigns. Their Santa Lolly Run delights hundreds of families, and school visits educate future volunteers. By combining rigorous training with year-round community engagement, fire safety education, and charitable initiatives, the brigade demonstrates courage, compassion, and lasting commitment to Karratha and the wider Pilbara region.