Joy Milton named City of Port Lincoln's 2026 Citizen of the Year
The City of Port Lincoln proudly announce the recipients of the 2026 Australia Day Citizen of the Year Awards, recognising outstanding individuals and events that make an exceptional contribution to our community.
This year’s award recipients are:
- Citizen of the Year – Joy Milton
- Young Citizen of the Year – Isabella Slater
- Community Event of the Year – The Port Lincoln Tuna Classic
- Award for Active Citizenship – Bill Kannussaar
Citizen of the Year, Joy Milton has been recognised for her outstanding service, leadership and long-standing contribution to the Port Lincoln community. Between 2017 and 2019, she created a day options program through CARA supporting young people with additional needs and disabilities. In 2020, she founded United We Made It, a holistic program that provides a nurturing, inclusive environment for people with diverse conditions, personalities, and abilities. Her work has helped create a socially cohesive and supportive community focussed on helping participants reach their full potential.
A gifted mentor and an inspiring role model, Joy has raised visibility and awareness for some of the most vulnerable members of our community. She has developed an impactful framework that others can follow, demonstrating what is possible when compassion, dedication, and vision come together.
Her contribution extends well beyond her formal role, she is a teacher, mentor, coach, mediator, planner, visionary, and support person to many. Balancing her professional responsibilities with family and community commitments, Joy consistently goes above and beyond to uplift others.
Young Citizen of the Year, Isabella Slater has been recognised for her exceptional achievements and commitment to community initiatives as a young person aged 12-25.
A dedicated volunteer coach at the Williams Boxing Gym, she obtained her Bronze-level coaching accreditation this year to support the gym and its young participants. She is a valued contributor actively involved in youth mentoring and leadership activities at the gym, school and broader community.
In addition to her volunteering, Isabella has enjoyed a successful debut year in competitive boxing, winning her first fight. Her positive influence and leadership make her an inspiring role model for young people.
The Port Lincoln Tuna Classic has been named Community Event of the Year in recognition of its outstanding contribution to local engagement, inclusion, and community spirit.
Attracting keen fishers from across Australia, and many local competitors, the event provides a significant economic boost to the region. Its signature Friday night Calcutta Auction includes four major prizes, with 10% of proceeds donated to Variety. This year, the Tuna Classic donated $14,400 to Variety, The Children’s Charity via the Variety Bash team, The Runaway Brides. They also donated raffle prizes, which raised an additional $5,000 to support sick, disabled and disadvantaged children in South Australia.
Now approaching its 20th year in 2026, the event continues to grow in scale and impact. The current organisation team, Steve Toome and Ashley White, who took over three years ago while also running their own businesses, have successfully elevated the event and attracted strong sponsorship from major companies, opening them up to what Port Lincoln has to offer.
Award for Active Citizenship was awarded to Bill Kannussaar recognised for his dedicated volunteering and positive impact across numerous community organisations.
As Music Director for the Port Lincoln City Band, he is a key supporter of the Port Lincoln Carols on the Foreshore, performing and assisting in the coordination of this much-loved community event. He also supports the Variety Club Christmas Show each year and regularly accompanies artists, vocalists, and musicians at community performances.
In addition, Bill has been instrumental in nurturing young musicians, supporting students who provide music at Saturday mass, and accompanying Year 12 music students from across the Lower Eyre Peninsula. He also organises and provides music for church services and is the current President of the West Coast Swimming Club, supporting the committee and club members and taking on officiating and commentating roles at meets across South Australia.
Always willing to step in where help is needed, Bill is a strong advocate for youth involvement and community connection. His ongoing volunteer efforts have made a meaningful and lasting difference to countless individuals and community groups.
Mayor Diana Mislov said, “Port Lincoln is built on the strength and generosity of its people, and these awards are a reminder of just how many incredible individuals quietly make a difference every day. Celebrating them through programs like the Citizen of the Year Awards is an important way to recognise their contribution and inspire others.”
“I invite you all to note your calendars and join us in celebrating our award winners at the Australia Day Community Breakfast and Award Ceremony on Monday, 26 January 2026 at 11am, following the Community Breakfast, 7am-9.30am on the Port Lincoln Foreshore. A plaque and certificate will be presented to each award recipient.”
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MEDIA CONTACT:
City of Port Lincoln Chief Executive Officer Eric Brown
Ph: 8621 2325 | Email: plcc@plcc.sa.gov.au
