Unsung heroes, inspiring individuals and outstanding community organisations comprise a vibrant and diverse group of finalists for the 2026 Honour Awards.
Now in its 19th year, the Honour Awards celebrates exceptional leadership, achievements and contributions in rainbow communities in New South Wales. Produced by ACON, the award shines a light on people and organisations making a positive and lasting impact to the lives of LGBTQ+ people.
The 33 finalists were selected from over 150 nominations across various categories covering the health, entertainment, community, HIV, business, arts, youth and community service sectors.
HONOUR 2026: Finalists:
COMMUNITY HERO:
Ashley Scott
Joseph Sikulu
Katie Green
Penny Gulliver
Shane Pascoe / Joyce Maynge
VOLUNTEER HERO:
Cassandra Armstrong
William Weller
Erol Dalkic & Graham August
Beverly Buttercup
YOUNG ACHIEVER:
Dawood Sajid
Dan Davis
Barbi Ghanoush
Josh Turner
COMMUNITY ORGANISATION:
The Gender Centre
INsolidarity’s The Mound
Sydney Stingers Water Polo
Walk On Walk Strong Project
ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND MEDIA:
Kat Dopper
Brunswick Picture House
Luka Musicki
Under the Brown Rainbow
HIV HERO:
John Rule
Elliot McLaren
Stephen Allkins
HIV/AIDS Legal Centre
HEALTH & WELLBEING:
Andrew Bondini
Hanna Qereqeretabua
Hayden York
Paula Corvalan
BUSINESS:
PlanetDwellers
Chocolat Philippe
Bernie’s Bar Newcastle
Pink Media Group
ACON CEO Michael Woodhouse said the judging panel was impressed by the breadth and diversity of this year’s nominations. “Every day, people from all walks of life and many community groups and organisations do incredible work that improves the lives of LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones,” said Woodhouse.
“Honour recognises well-known achievers and also those whose contributions are made outside of the limelight. At a time when our rights and our lives are being questioned and attacked, now more than ever, we need to unite and lift each other up.”
The foundations of healthy, strong and resilient communities are built by compassionate, dedicated and hard-working people. These awards honour the many individuals and organisations doing just that.”
“We look forward to celebrating the excellence, strength, diversity and resilience of our communities at this year’s Honour Awards,” said Woodhouse.
The 2026 Honour Awards Ceremony and Reception will be held at Paddington Town Hall on Thursday 8 October. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.honourawards.com.au for details.
Image: Honour Awards (supplied)