2026 Citizen of the Year Award winners

Our 2026 Citizen of the Year Award winners have gone above and beyond in contributing to The Barossa Council community.

Committed, compassionate and humble are words many have used to describe Council’s Citizen of the Year, John Hughes.

They say the Foundation Barossa Board’s Deputy Chair “does anything for anyone” and is someone who has “earned the deepest respect and admiration” from all he meets.

But John describes himself as the “Rieslingfreak”, and whilst his successful wine business allows him to sponsor local clubs, it’s his love for the Barossa community that is at the heart of why he gives so much time to causes he is passionate about.

Born with mild cerebral palsy, John’s own experience as a young man applying for around 140 jobs and reaching the first interview but never being invited back for a second, inspired him to found the “Kicking Goals Scholarship” through Foundation Barossa later in life.

He says he’s “super proud” to be involved in a program that has made a positive difference in the lives of Year 10 and 11 students, through personal mentoring and financial support, as they navigate the challenges of finding their place and purpose.

“It’s all about being able to give children in the Barossa with a physical or intellectual disability an opportunity that I never had when I was their age,” John says.

“I wanted to give back in a way that would assist in setting up the child for either employment or education and that is what ‘Kicking Goals’ is all about.”

Given the honour of becoming a Baron of the Barossa for his contributions, John also sits on the boards of other local not-for-profit organisations, including Barossa Enterprises and Tanunda Clubhouse which complement his quiet leadership style, generous nature and strong community values.

“Coming to the Barossa in early 2000s, it’s really enabled me to immerse myself within the Barossa, the community and the culture and that’s something I’vealways craved,” John says.

“And now being involved in the Foundation, the various boards, being involved in the local sporting groups through Rieslingfreak. Being recognised for these effort - also through the Barons - it’s a massive honour.

“I never, ever thought I would find a community that would embrace me like the Barossa has, and I love it.

“The old brain is busy, that’s for sure!”

When Sadie Aird wished for a lifetime’s worth of books, she could never have imagined how much the kindness of strangers would influence the inspiring young woman she is today.

“I was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of seven and I was granted a wish a few months later though the Make-A-Wish Foundation. My wish was for a lifetime’s supply of books!” says Sadie, Council’s Young Citizen of the Year.

At the time, her unique request provided an escape from the pain and fear of her treatment. She also became the face of the national Make-A-Wish Australia Christmas Appeal, appearing on billboards around the nation and inspiring a range of fundraising merchandise.

Now at sixteen, Sadie is not only a cancer survivor, but also the Make- A-Wish Children’s Ambassador, using her voice to raise awareness, guide and encourage other young people navigating their cancer journey.

Providing advice at National Office level, she welcomed the opportunity to do work experience with the organisation in Melbourne.

“It was so interesting to see behind the scenes.... I thought I need to help people make a wish happen, I need to help raise money.”

Sadie is a passionate advocate for the Barossa branch, speaking at countless functions, including the Stars of Barossa event and Nuriootpa Netball Club Ladies’ Day.

Her inspiring message also saw her invited to appear in Camp Quality’s new Bloom video series designed to support and educate teens about the impact of cancer at that age.

For Sadie, it has been a way to share her lived experience, inspire young people and thank the community and the many volunteers who provided support.

“I just want to give back to Make-A-Wish because they did so much for me,” says the Nuriootpa teen.

“When I was sick and I got my wish. It was so special to come home and see a box of books by the front door. And even now that I’m older, I’ve still got all these books that I can re-read so many times - I’ve read all of them!

“Instead of reminding me of when I was so ill and not in a good place, it makes me feel the goodness and the connection that Make-A-Wish has with people.”

Cooking for others is Lorna Schiller’s love language. Always has been, always will be.

Add in her generous spirit, dedication to community and commitment to making a difference in children’s lives, and this Tanunda grandmother has all the special ingredients making her a worthy recipient of Council’s Award for Active Citizenship.

Since joining Kiwanis Barossa close to 22 years ago, Lorna’s cooking skills have helped put meals on the tables of those in need.

Her culinary know-how, leadership as the Club’s fundraising officer, and prowess behind the barbecue has not only tantalised many a taste bud, it’s raked in vital funds for a myriad of charities.

“I love volunteering for Kiwanis because it raises money for children. I also volunteer a lot for Langmeil church,” Lorna says, describing how the simple act of sharing a plate of sandwiches can nourish the soul and bring comfort.

“If it fits in the diary, then I’ll go out and do it for the day.

"We are all fundraising for a cause and that's what I love about life."

Last year, through her role with Kiwanis, Lorna also assisted a group of Nuriootpa High School Agriculture students raise money to fund their study tour to Grapevine Texas - part of Council’s Sister City initiative.

“All eight got so involved...they just grew in attitude, even just the way they spoke to people and their confidence was way out of this world,” she says.

“I don’t feel as adults we often listen to children enough, to encourage and support, and just be there for them. We need to make them grow in confidence.”

Described as always going above and beyond for her community and never one to say no to a good cause, Lorna has an astounding work ethic and never expects anything in return for the hours she contributes.

“I’m sometimes told by some Kiwanis members, not another sausage sizzle!” Lorna laughs.

“And I just say we will be raising enough money from this to support another child, why wouldn’t we?

“That’s what we are here for, as well as the fellowship we get out of Kiwanis, and I love it!

“I’m not a chef by any means, but I am a tummy filler.... Basic food, made with love, that’s just the best.”

Inclusivity and innovation is the winning formula for Angaston Show, named Council’s Community Event of the Year.

Angaston Show Society President, Darren Linke says the award recognises what a small country show can achieve when volunteers, exhibitors and the wider community come together for a common cause.

“It’s always been about more than just one weekend,” says Darren.

"It's about bringing our Barossa community together, celebrating agriculture and creating a place where everyone feels welcome."

Recently, the committee has focused on making the show easier to understand and more inclusive for people of all ages and abilities.

A sensory quiet space was introduced for show day along with a children’s discovery trail, interactive educational activity stations and initiatives such as workshops to empower younger generations and first-time exhibitors.

“We’ve created clear online resources, including a walk through video and social stories and introduced inclusive competition sections so everyone can take part and feel proud of their efforts,” Darren says.

Having evolved into a platform for learning, creativity and belonging, Angaston Show’s new dedicated inclusive sections span multiple areas from colouring-in, floral art, and handicrafts, to art and cookery.

“There are literally hundreds of ribbons and quite a number of trophies up for grabs,” adds Darren.

“It’s a small show but it’s a nice, friendly community environment.... and we have got fabulous grounds here at the Angaston Oval.

“Some families that have been exhibiting at the Show would be fourth, fifth and even up to sixth generation.

“It’s a real highlight when you see how proud some of these families are when they bring in their exhibits.”

It’s the excitement generated on show day that keeps volunteers like Darren, and a team of around 20 more, enthused.

“What makes this award especially meaningful is that it reflects the spirit of this 130-year-old Show Hall - the heart of the Angaston Show - where generations of locals have gathered to learn, compete and celebrate together.”