The Playford community is being called upon to help recognise and celebrate those making a positive impact, by submitting nominations into the 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards.

Open from October 1 to November 15, these nominations offer a unique chance to shine a spotlight on individuals whose selfless contributions often go unnoticed. Importantly, nominees don’t need to reside in Playford to be eligible, making it an inclusive opportunity to honour those who truly make a difference.

Last year’s Playford Citizen of the Year, Ben Pacillo, owner of Delicia Acai Café in Elizabeth, is a shining example of how one person’s commitment can make a far-reaching impact.

Through his café, Mr. Pacillo offers free hot drinks and refreshments to those experiencing homelessness or financial hardship, while also creating a welcoming space for creativity and culture.

He established a ‘free to take’ table, offering fresh food and books to those in need, showcasing how businesses can support the community in meaningful ways.

“Business isn’t just about profits; it’s about people,” Mr. Pacillo said.

“We love where we live and work, and I believe it’s important for business owners to leverage their position to create stronger community cohesion.”

Mayor Glenn Docherty echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of recognising individuals making a positive mark in the community.

“It’s everyone’s responsibility to help build a thriving, inclusive community," Mayor Docherty said.

"I encourage people to seek out these unsung heroes among us and nominate them for Citizen of the Year. Doing great work is important, but so is acknowledging it.”

Nominations are evaluated based on both recent achievements and long-standing contributions, with winners announced during Playford’s Australia Day celebrations at Fremont Park on January 26, 2025.

The nomination process has been simplified this year to make it easier for the community to honour those who have truly made an impact.

People can nominate using the online form available at the Citizen of the Year official website at citizenoftheyear.com.au/nominate/ and hard copy nominations are also accepted. These can be collected from Playford Civic Centre at Elizabeth or downloaded from City of Playford’s website - playford.sa.gov.au/awards

2025 Playford Citizen of the Year Award Categories:

• Award of Active Citizenship

• Award of Young Active Citizenship

• Sports Club of the Year

• Community Group or Initiative of the Year

• Young Citizen of the Year

• Citizen of the Year

Submitting your nomination form:
Email: events@playford.sa.gov.au

In person:

Playford Civic Centre,

10 Playford Blvd

Elizabeth SA 5112

Post:

City of Playford

Attn: Events team

12 Bishopstone Road

Davoren Park SA 5113