Community
29 January, 2026
Well-deserved honour
PANMURE’S Ian Wallace couldn’t hold back the tears as he was named the 2026 Moyne Shire Citizen of the Year in recognition to his tireless efforts to ensure the history of his beloved community is never forgotten.
Residents stood shoulder to shoulder at the Panmure Community Hall on Monday as Mr Wallace received his award, with applause reverberating through the hall as the community shared their gratitude for all he has done.
In addition to Mr Wallace earning recognition, Lachie Payne and Eadie Gleeson shared joint-acknowledgement as Young Citizens of The Year and the Port Fairy Literary Weekend was named Community Event of the Year.
Speaking with Western District Newspapers, Mr Wallace said his Christmas celebrations had started early after learning he had received the recognition on Christmas Eve.
“I’m overwhelmed, really,” he said.
“I knew I had been nominated but I didn’t think I would have a chance.
“I was completely overwhelmed.
“I got a call at about 4pm on Christmas Eve from mayor Jordan Lockett explaining I had won, so my Christmas started early and it’s still going.”
Mr Wallace, speaking before the packed hall after receiving the award, took the opportunity to recognise previous recipients from Panmure.
He said receiving the award in his beloved community, in front of so many family and friends, made it all the sweeter.
“It’s just lovely,” he said.
“To see so many people attend, I was absolutely thrilled through to the back teeth with.”
Mayor councillor Jordan Lockett congratulated Mr Wallace, saying he was deeply deserving of the recognition.
“Ian Wallace is all about dedication, leadership, and generosity,” he said.
“His long-standing, voluntary, and far-reaching contributions make him an outstanding role model and a truly deserving recipient of the Moyne Citizen of the Year Award.
“As a tireless and passionate member of the Panmure community, Ian has played a pivotal role in the Panmure Action Group and the Panmure Cemetery Trust – leading projects that preserve history, honour our veterans, and enhance community spaces.”
Lachie Payne and Eadie Gleeson were named joint Young Citizens of the Year due to the similarity in their dedication to representing their community.
“Both Lachie and Eadie are volunteers for the Nippers program at the Port Fairy Surf Life Saving Club,” Cr Lockett said.
“They are also both members of the Moyne Shire Youth Advisory Board, helping shape programs and initiatives for local youth – Lachie brings enthusiasm, commitment, and community spirit, and Eadie is noted for her dedication, leadership and genuine care for others.
“They are equally deserving recipients of a Young Citizen Award.”
The Port Fairy Literary Weekend earned the nod thanks to the efforts of volunteers to celebrate the importance of reading.
“Led by local Jo Canham, the Port Fairy Literary Weekend brings authors to Port Fairy each year for a weekend of lively discussion, storytelling, and connection,” Cr Lockett said.
“Designed especially for regional audiences, it offers rare opportunities to engage directly with authors and ideas right here in our own community, and to build networks and engagement between writers and readers.”
Cr Lockett said he was stoked to acknowledge the individuals and events which have a positive impact on the community.
“These awards are a great way to highlight the amazing efforts people make every day to help our communities thrive,” he said.
“It’s really important that we recognise these contributions, so people understand that their work matters and is valued.
“Massive thanks all of our recipients for their dedication to making Moyne Shire an even better place to live.”
Read More: local