Community groups awarded for leadership, engagement and impact
Published on 01 December 2025
SOMERSET Regional Council held its inaugural Community Development Conference on Saturday, 29 November 2025 at the Somerset Civic Centre in Esk.
The conference invited community groups, sporting clubs and not-for-profit organisations to come together, share knowledge and discover ways to unlock the potential of their volunteers.
Somerset Social Plan Advisory Committee Chair, Councillor Michael Bishop, said he was proud to see the so many community groups getting involved.
“We had more than 50 attendees representing 20 groups at Council’s inaugural Community Development Conference, which spoke to Somerset’s community groups’ appetite for growth and professional development,” Cr Bishop said.
“Our guest speaker, Steve Connelly from Connelly Project Resources (CPR) Group, equipped participants with practical tools to strengthen their foundations, grow their impact and build better outcomes for the people they serve.
“He did a fantastic job and we’re very grateful for his time and for CPR Group’s support in delivering this event.”
Council also received 29 nominations for the Community Impact Awards, another new initiative delivered through the conference.
“There were many award-worthy nominees, with many receiving multiple nominations from different community members,” Cr Bishop said.
“It made for a difficult job picking the winners, which again speaks to the quality of Somerset’s network of community groups.”
The Community Leadership Award was presented to Rocky Gully Recreational and Anglers Club.
“This group has gone above and beyond to revive the Coominya Christmas Carnival, ensuring free rides for families and creating a joyful, inclusive event that brings the community together year after year,” Cr Bishop said.
“Their commitment to supporting local schools, youth programs, and social connection truly embodies the spirit of community.”
The Community Engagement Award was presented to Kilcoy District Progress Alliance (KDPA)
“Through initiatives like the annual Christmas Tree event and the restoration of Kilcoy Cemetery, they’ve brought people together, fostered pride, and created lasting opportunities for volunteers to make a difference,” Cr Bishop said.
“KDPA have created opportunities for families and individuals to participate in meaningful community projects, bridging generational and cultural gaps.”
Lastly, the Community Impact Award was presented to the Lions Club of Lowood.
“From supporting dementia carers and flood-affected families to creating the Open-Door Gallery and funding cancer care packages, their tireless efforts have touched lives across Somerset, proving that generosity and creativity can transform a community,” Cr Bishop said.
“Their events and ongoing partnerships with schools and art societies show a strong commitment to long-term community enrichment.”
The recipients were presented with their awards by Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann and Somerset’s Mayor Jason Wendt.
Cr Bishop congratulated the three winners and all nominees for their contributions to the Somerset region.
“We’re excited to see Somerset’s community groups explore new possibilities with their learnings from the Community Development Conference,” Cr Bishop said.
“Through our collaboration with CPR Group, Council has developed the ‘Running a Community Organisation Toolkit’ which is now available on Council’s website.”
To access the toolkit, visit somerset.qld.gov.au/Grants-and-Resources
Community Leadership Award winner 2025: Rocky Gully Recreational and Anglers Club.
Pictured: Member for Blair Shayne Neumann, Carrie Grundy, Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt.
Community Engagement Award winner 2025: Kilcoy District Progress Alliance.
Pictured: Member for Blair Shayne Neumann, Cheryl Gaedtke, Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt.
Community Impact Award winner 2025: Lions Club of Lowood.
Pictured: Member for Blair Shayne Neumann, Yvonne Hawkins, Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt.
Somerset groups nominated for the 2025 Community Impact Awards.