Rebekka Battista has been named Lismore City Council’s 2026 Citizen of the Year, in rec ognition of her decades-long ded ication to children’s health and family-centred care across the Northern Rivers.
Through her work with Our Kids and Our House, Battista has made a lasting impact on count less families, offering practical support and advocacy where it is needed most.
Her initiatives have included pro
grams addressing mental health, early childhood develop ment, and access to essential ser vices, ensuring families receive holistic and compassionate care.
She has also mentored emerging community leaders, inspiring others to engage in meaningful volunteer work and advocacy.
children’s health and family sup port across our region.” The recog nition of Battista’s work comes as part of Lismore’s annual Australia Day celebrations, which also hon oured other community champi ons across various categories.
from 20 countries taking their oaths.
The event highlighted both the strength of Lismore’s existing community and the diversity that continues to enrich it.
Attendees enjoyed speeches, performances, and opportunities to connect with neighbours and local organisations, reinforcing the city’s shared commitment to inclusivity, service, and a brighter future for all residents.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg praised her efforts, saying Battis ta “captures the best of Lismore’s spirit, which is people seeing a need and getting on with fixing it.” He added, “I congratulate her on this honour and thank her for the care, resilience, and commit ment she has shown to improving
“I also want to acknowledge all winners and nominees,” Mayor Krieg said. “Each of them is proof that community does not just happen; it is built by people who show up.”
The celebrations served as a reminder that community spir it thrives when people dedicate time, energy, and compassion to the wellbeing of others.
The ceremony was also a mo ment of welcome and celebration for new Australians, with 52 new citizens (including 12 dependants)
Fonte: Allora! n. 277, 30 gennaio 2026, pagina 6.
