Julie Williams Named Byron Shire’s 2026 Community Person of the Year

Julie Williams – 2026 Community Person of the Year

Julie Williams, from the Mullumbimby and District Neighourhood Centre, is Byron Shire’s 2026 Community Member of the Year.

Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, presented Julie with her award on 4 August at the Byron Shire Community Awards.

The annual Community Awards recognise local heroes, with nominations and selections made by members of the community.  This year Council received 123 nominations across eight categories.

“What an honour to present Julie with her award and say thank you for her hard work and dedication to helping people in our community,” Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.

“Julie has led the Mullumbimby and District Neighbourhood Centre for 35 years, advocating for people in our community, responding to escalating incidents of domestic violence, stepping up in emergencies, and everything in between. Julie is the epitome of calm in an emergency, and her vibrancy, wicked sense of humour and resolute belief that we can do better and be better together make her such a respected person in our community.

“Through Julie, the MDNC is an organisation that listens to people, works with them to deliver services to meet their needs; the MDNC is always there when the need is greatest. There are few people more deserving of this award than Julie Williams and on behalf of our community and Council, thank you to you, and your MDNC team, for your hard work and dedication.”

The award winners in the other categories were:

Young Community Member of the year Rowon Bienke Von Freyhold

Seventeen-year-old Rowon Bienke Von Freyhold led an innovative social change group targeting young people, engaging them in decision-making at a community level via a three-day workshop where they created solutions to social and environmental issues impacting them.

Rowon challenged them to recognise that they have a role to play in deciding their future and how they can engage with decision makers to realise change.

The group he established “Venture of Impactful Community and Environmental Sustainability” is working on projects that will be implemented in local schools to improve outcomes for students.

Access and Inclusion Award – A Midsummer’s Night Queen Production

‘A Midsummer’s Night Queen’, a production at Mullumbimby’s Drill Hall Theatre, was a glittering, queer re-imagining of Shakespeare’s "Much Ado About Nothing", reframed through drag, music, dance, and contemporary LGBTQI+ culture.

The production celebrated queer identity, chosen family, performance as protest, and the radical joy of visibility. The show is set during Lismore's iconic Tropical Fruits New Year's Eve festival, with Ballina's Big Prawn & the Byron Bay Lighthouse also making cameos.

Running for 12 sold-out shows, it was selected for performances at Pride Fest in Sydney.

Caring for Country Reid Waters

Reid Waters is a tireless and deeply committed volunteer with Byron Bird Buddies.  He is a quiet, humble presence in our community — someone who works steadily in the background, never seeking recognition, praise, or attention.

His motivation is simple and genuine: a profound care for the environment and a desire to protect the birds and places that make the Byron Shire unique.

Reid’s work is hands-on and practical. He collaborates respectfully and effectively with Council, NPWS and other stakeholders to ensure that nesting areas are protected and well managed.

During the critical breeding season for beach nesting birds, he often attends sites daily, especially when eggs are due to hatch or when tiny chicks are at their most vulnerable.

His presence on the beach — early, consistent, and calm — has directly contributed to the survival of numerous chicks over the years.

Creativity Award – Brett Haylock and Chris Chen from the Brunswick Picture House

Brett and Chris have established a living, creative hub with the Brunswick Picture House.

It is a place where, at night "the show goes on", and during the day choirs rehearse, improv acting classes play and live drawing classes are run.  It’s a sanctuary where people feel safe, celebrated and welcomed.

The artists who Chris and Brett have brought to the Byron Shire has been a treat for our community, creating a time and place for people to enjoy the talents and crafts of so many incredibly creative, gifted and entertaining people.

The Brunswick Picture House is a valuable, thriving community centre thanks to Brett and Chris and their openness and generosity.

Contribution to Health and Wellbeing Award - Kylie Martin

Kylie Martin is the force behind Surf Sisters, a welcoming and inclusive network for women of all ages and surfing abilities to come together in a safe, supportive environment.

She organises regular group surf sessions, fostering a culture of shared learning, where participants exchange surf tips, safety knowledge, and ocean awareness to build confidence and skills.

Beyond surfing, Kylie has created a broader support network that includes social events, carpool coordination, supporting and promoting local businesses, board rentals, and even connections for housing.

In Business for Good Award – The Paddock Project

The Paddock Project at Mullumbimby provides meaningful employment and opportunities for people living with disabilities growing sustainable, organic produce.

The Paddock employs many people in the local neuro-diverse community and staff meet every participant at their individual level of ability. 

Its values include growth, development, inclusivity, diversity, and open communication in an ethical and sustainable environment.

Community Initiative of the Year - Seed Giving Circle and the Mullumbimby Show Society

There were two winners in this category.

Seed Giving Circle

By pooling resources and decision-making power, members of the Seed Giving Circle join a movement that amplifies regenerative climate and environmental projects while strengthening the backbone of a thriving regional ecosystem of changemakers.

Half of members’ contributions fund a small grants program supporting grassroots projects across the Northern Rivers. The second half goes toward the creating of the Seed Changemakers Collective, to deliver training, mentoring, and capacity-building support to help local leaders and organisations thrive, build lasting connections, and lead with care in complex times.

Mullumbimby Show Society

The Mullumbimby Show promotes social cohesion, celebrates local identity, and supports local businesses and talent. By hosting this annual event, the Mullumbimby Agricultural Society is helping to build a stronger, more connected community in the Byron Shire.

There is an incredible volunteer effort behind the Show Society that goes into making it happen. Every member of the organising committee is a volunteer.

The partnership between volunteers and local businesses is a key factor in the show's success, and in turn, the Show Society can give back to the community $7,000 through donations to volunteer organisations and sporting groups.