Citizen of the Year 2026
Nadine Wood

Awarded to citizens who have made a noteworthy contribution during the previous year and/or given outstanding service to the local community for a number of years.

Nadine's compassion for community across South Australia for many decades earned her this year's Citizen of the Year in West Torrens.

Drawing on her own lived experience of teenage homelessness, she has dedicated her life to supporting women in crisis, vulnerable young people, families affected by disaster, and isolated elderly residents.

Her volunteer leadership spans organisations such as Catherine House, Zonta International, the Animal Welfare League, and numerous grassroots initiatives, including co-founding We Care in the West during COVID-19 to ensure elderly community members received food, medicine, and vital social connection. Through tireless fundraising, grant writing, and hands-on service, Nadine’s work has had a lasting, practical impact on thousands of lives.

Beyond her extensive service record, Nadine is recognised for her empathy, inclusivity, and resilience. She has empowered women to rebuild their lives with dignity, fostered connection through the arts, and mentored others with warmth and integrity. Even while managing serious autoimmune illness, she continues to serve without seeking recognition, motivated solely by a belief in doing what is right. Honoured through multiple awards and nominations, Nadine’s true legacy lies in the hope she restores, the bridges she builds, and the example she sets of how compassion, humility, and community spirit can transform lives.

Photograph: Nadine with Australia Day Ambassador Christine Robertson OAM and Mayor Michael Coxon.