Good Neighbour of the Year 2026 winner Reece Childs, with Angela Hales from sponsor Accounting Professionals (left) and Deputy Mayor Kellie Marsh (right). Photo: Shellharbour City Council.
From welcoming newcomers to lending a hand without being asked, Warilla’s Reece Childs has built a reputation for simply showing up and it’s earned him Shellharbour’s Good Neighbour of the Year title for 2026.
Recognised for the small, everyday acts that bring people together, Reece was among Shellharbour residents celebrated for strengthening community spirit across the region in the 25th year of the awards.
According to those who nominated him, he is known for going out of his way to welcome new neighbours, hosting gatherings, sharing meals and assisting with everyday tasks.
“Reece’s kindness, generosity, and selfless nature make him the heart of his neighbourhood, someone who shows up time and time again without being asked, simply because he cares,” one of Reece’s nominators said.
“He doesn’t just live in the street, he strengthens it, making it more connected, supportive, and joyful for everyone.”
Street of the Year went to Ocean Beach Drive in Shellharbour, which was recognised for its outstanding level of neighbourly connection and support, highlighting the residents’ genuine culture of looking out for one another.
Residents regularly check in, share fresh produce, help with household tasks and offer support whenever it’s needed.
The street also runs its own Facebook group to share updates, assist during storms and lend or give away items to neighbours.
Two new award categories were introduced this year, including Most Environmentally Friendly Neighbour, which went to Veronica Robin, and a Rock Art Competition, which encouraged participants to decorate a rock to give to a neighbour or place somewhere in the community.
Winners of the Good Neighbour Street of the Year 2026, residents from Ocean Beach Drive with Deputy Mayor Kellie Marsh (far right), councillor John Davey (third from right) and award sponsor Tina Britton from The Waterfront Shell Cove (second from left). Photo: Shellharbour City Council.
Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer said the nominees in this year’s Good Neighbour Awards reflected the best of the city’s community spirit.
“The calibre of people recognised at these awards, those who show up for their neighbours, put others first, and strengthen the places we all call home is something we can all be proud of,” councillor Homer said.
“Their kindness, their pride in their streets, and their willingness to look out for one another is a huge part of what makes Shellharbour such a special community.”
Good Neighbour Awards, part of Relationships Australia’s National Neighbour Day celebrations, aims to recognise Shellharbour’s unsung heroes and celebrate the power of kindness and community connections.
“These awards remind us that we can all make a positive impact through simple acts of kindness,” Cr Homer said.
“A conversation, a shared meal or a friendly gesture can help grow a sense of belonging in our neighbourhoods.”
2026 award winners were:
Good Neighbour of the Year: winner, Reece Childs (Warilla); runner-up, Jack and Caeli Whitford (Shellharbour); honourable mentions, Vasa, Tony McClelland and Stephen Cusack
Most Environmentally Friendly Neighbour: Veronica Robin
Street of the Year: Ocean Beach Drive, Shellharbour.
Rock Art Competition:
Ages 0-5: winner, Spencer; second prize, Miller; third prize, Leonard
Ages 6-12: winner, Jaylah; second prize (tied), Londyn and Bella
Ages 13-17: winner, Sophie; second prize, Declan; third prize (tied), Amalia and Layla
Ages 18+: winner, Lorraine; second prize, Chloe; third prize (tied), Lyn, Paula and Kylie.
