Celebrating the 2026 West Coast Spirit Awards
On 10 March, Council proudly hosted a civic ceremony to honour the 2026 West Coast Spirit Award recipients and celebrate the long history of the awards within our community.
This year, we recognise and congratulate:
- Bernice Mathewson
- Susan Pitt
- Strahan Community Op Shop
Their commitment, generosity, and community leadership reflect the very best of the West Coast.
Honouring the Legacy of Our Volunteers
Past Spirit Award recipients were invited to attend the ceremony, with more than 50 guests joining us for the celebration — a testament to the strength and longevity of volunteerism in our region. A highlight of the event was the unveiling of two Tasmanian blackwood honour boards, crafted to acknowledge every West Coast Spirit Award recipient from 1989 to the present day:
- One board features the names of recipients from 1989–2018
- The second continues the record from 2019 onwards
Together, these boards form a permanent tribute to the individuals and groups whose contributions have shaped the West Coast with compassion, leadership, and service.
No celebration is complete without cake — and this year’s ceremonial cutting was carried out by Trevor Giles, the oldest recipient in attendance. It was a fitting tribute to the many years of dedication represented in the room.
Council extends sincere thanks to all past and present award recipients, to our volunteers, and to the organisations that support and strengthen community life across the West Coast. Your efforts build a region that is resilient, generous, and proud.
Congratulations once again to the 2026 West Coast Spirit Award recipients, and thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate the Spirit of the West Coast.
More information about the West Coast Spirit Awards.
