Active Citizenship Award 2026
Julie Hazelman

Presented to a person or group delivering outstanding work, or an event or cause staged in the community during the past year.

Julie Hazelman is facing Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), a serious and life-altering illness that brings with it complex medical challenges, frequent hospitalisations, chemotherapy, and ongoing health complications. Despite this, she continues to show extraordinary strength and compassion, navigating her own illness while remaining deeply committed to the care and wellbeing of those around her. Even in the midst of treatment, she maintains a selfless focus on supporting others, demonstrating remarkable resilience and generosity of spirit.

Throughout her working life as a hairdresser, Julie has been far more than a service provider - she has been a trusted confidant and source of quiet support for countless individuals. She has offered informal counselling, home visits, meals, and guidance to medical and community support services, often without recognition or expectation of return. She has also been a longstanding contributor to community life, particularly when she resided in Millicent, South Australia, supporting civic and volunteer organisations including pony clubs, racing and sporting groups, environmental causes, and advocacy for organ transplant recipients, an issue close to her heart through long-standing personal connections.

In addition, Julie has taken on caring roles for numerous people, especially elderly community members, providing practical assistance, companionship, and dignity.

Her support is often private, informal, and unseen, yet deeply meaningful to those who receive it. Julie embodies humility, kindness, and unwavering compassion - a true quiet achiever whose lifelong commitment to others makes her exceptionally deserving of recognition.

Photograph: Bruce Hazelman accepts the award on behalf of his wife, along with Australia Day Ambassador Christine Robertson OAM and Mayor Michael Coxon.