Sabrina Kelly was one of 11 honoured from the Illawarra and South Coast in the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll. Photo: Supplied.
Nearly a year after being named Kiama’s Citizen of the Year, volunteer Sabrina Kelly has again been recognised for the countless hours she quietly gives back to the community.
From school programs and surf lifesaving to animal rescue and therapy support, the Kiama mum was among 11 Illawarra and South Coast women added to the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll celebrating the often unseen work keeping communities connected.
Through Kiama Public School, Sabrina’s volunteer work has included serving as P&C president, ethics teacher and reinforced reading volunteer, and helping create opportunities and positive outcomes for students.
Beyond the school community, she also volunteers with Kiama Surf Life Saving Club, WIRES and PAWS Pet Therapy, supporting people, animals and community wellbeing initiatives.
After receiving her citizen award last year, she said: “So many people do things and I’m not doing any of it for recognition; I’m doing it because I get so much out of it and that’s enough.”
Sabrina said the recognition of so many women in this year’s honour roll highlighted the strength of community spirit across the region.
“There are so many incredible people who generously give their time, skills and compassion to support others every day,” she said.
“It is an honour to be recognised alongside women making such meaningful contributions to our community.”
Among the other recipients were Kiama’s Nicole O’Brien for leading the Local and Homegrown Community Hub at the Kiama Show to support local producers, makers and community engagement, and Jamberoo’s Ebony Wilson for her role as Young Dairy Network Leader, supporting and encouraging future generations within the agricultural sector.
Dementia work was spotlighted with Gerringong’s Dr Christa Wood recognised for her work in Dementia Inclusive Dancing, creating opportunities for movement, connection and wellbeing through inclusive programs.
It was highlighted again with Kiama’s Jenny Ferguson, who was recognised for her work as musical director of Alchemy Chorus South Coast, a dementia-inclusive choir creating opportunities for connection, inclusion and wellbeing through music.
Other music recipients were Kiama Downs’ Maree Shepherd for her service as a community choir conductor, Justice of the Peace and Probus Club president, and Jamberoo’s Kate Whitworth for establishing the Flame Tree Project, using music and creative community engagement to bring people together and strengthen social connection.
Kiama Down’s Esther Keenan was recognised for her business Known Designs generously supporting charities and organisations through donated T-shirts, logos, banners and design services, and Kiama’s Karen Renkema-Lang was honoured as co-founder of Kiama Community Radio to help inform, connect and amplify community voices.
Shoalhaven Heads’ Jessy Wiggins was added to the honour roll for her dedication as a Kiama Girl Guides Leader, helping mentor and support young people in the community, while Kiama’s Annette Young received the nod for her volunteer service through Meals on Wheels.
Recipients were announced by Minister for Women Jodie Harrison and Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty in May.
Nominations for the 2026 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll are now open and close 31 December.
