Somerset community groups called for award nominations

Published on 13 October 2025

	Somerset Regional Council’s 2025 Community Development Conference guest speaker Steve Connelly from CPR Group will provide insights into governance, planning and volunteer support.

SOMERSET Regional Council is calling on the community to shine a light on the incredible work of clubs and not-for-profit organisations across the region.

Council’s inaugural Community Development Conference is being held on Saturday, 29 November 2025 at the Somerset Civic Centre.

Somerset Social Plan Advisory Committee Chair, Councillor Michael Bishop, said the conference was both a networking opportunity and a celebration of community groups.

“A key element of the Community Development Conference will be the award presentation,” Cr Bishop said.

“We have three awards up for grabs and all clubs, organisations or collaborative initiatives within the Somerset region can be nominated.

“The Community Leadership Award recognises outstanding leadership and dedication to community development.

“We’ll celebrate community groups which have endeavoured to engage diverse community members with the Community Engagement Award.

“Lastly, the Community Impact Award will honour organisations creating measurable improvements in community wellbeing.”

Cr Bishop encouraged the community to nominate organisations which demonstrated innovation, impact, inclusivity or leadership qualities.

“If you know of a group which has made a difference in your life or your community, consider nominating them for an award,” Cr Bishop said.

“Often the efforts and achievements of community groups are only celebrated amongst a minority of invested people.

“By celebrating our community groups on a larger stage, we hope to share their stories and lead by example for other clubs.”

Award nominations open Monday, 13 October and close 4pm Friday, 21 November.

To nominate, visit somerset.qld.gov.au/CDCawards

The Community Development Conference will include presentations from keynote speaker Connelly Project Resources (CPR) Group general manager Steve Connelly with insights into governance, planning and volunteer support, as well as workshops facilitated by CPR Group.

Cr Bishop said Somerset Regional Council was supporting organisations with knowledge and participation to build resilient communities.

“The Community Development Conference will bring together community leaders, volunteers and stakeholders to share insights and build relationships,” Cr Bishop said.

“We look forward to seeing Somerset come together to celebrate community groups.”

The free event is organised by Somerset Regional Council and proudly funded through Queensland Government’s Neighbourhood Centre Initiative.

The Somerset community is invited to nominate worthy organisations for awards recognising leadership, impact and engagement.