Our Citizens of the Year were proudly announced and presented with their award certificates and medals at our Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony. We’re so grateful for the hard work, passion and dedication of our Citizens of the Year and congratulate them for their remarkable efforts.
2026 City of Joondalup Community Citizen of the Year, Janine Gaskell
Janine has devoted nearly three decades to the Joondalup Kinross Junior Football Club, most notably founding and leading the club’s Starkick All Abilities Program in 2016. Through her vision and commitment, she has created inclusive sporting opportunities for children aged 5–12 with physical and cognitive disabilities, coaching, recruiting, and coordinating the program for more than seven years while ensuring every child feels welcomed, supported, and celebrated.
Her leadership has given families experiences they once thought impossible – from playing at Optus Stadium to wearing club colours and joining in post game celebrations. Under Janine’s guidance, the program has grown from 8 to more than 30 participants and helped inspire the establishment of 32 Starkick clubs across Western Australia, now benefiting hundreds of children statewide.
2026 City of Joondalup Young Community Citizen of Year – The Periscope Crew
The Periscope Crew is a film collective of young people with disabilities, founded in Sorrento in 2020 and made up of 18–25-year-olds raised and educated in the City of Joondalup.
As part of the Perth based charity Soul Gestures Inc., they set out from the beginning to change the conversation around disability inclusion by telling stories from “every angle”, working with organisations, sports clubs, and local councils committed to building more inclusive communities.
In 2023, the Crew was selected as one of the film teams for the World Transplant Games, a major disability event held in Perth. This opportunity led to their film Everywhere, which highlights human connection, authentic inclusion, and the life changing value of organ donation.
Their achievements demonstrate the capability and talent of young people with disabilities in open employment and the creative industries, making a significant social impact and inspiring hope for young people with disabilities and their families.
2026 City of Joondalup Senior Community Citizen of the Year – Russell Wright
Russell Wright has been a proud resident of the City of Joondalup for 42 years and a cornerstone of the Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club since 1960. Awarded Life Membership in 1973, he played a crucial role during a defining period when he was the club’s only senior qualified active member, spending every weekend patrolling the beach to keep the community safe.
Appointed Chief Instructor at just 19, the youngest ever, he performed countless rescues, both on and off duty, and became a passionate ambassador for surf lifesaving, regularly speaking at community groups and schools to promote water safety and volunteerism.
His influence shaped generations of young athletes through his leadership in junior development, Nippers coaching, and board training programs, where he was known for inspiring and mentoring competitors who went on to achieve State Championship success.
Alongside his coaching, Russell enjoyed a decorated competitive career, earning numerous medals and cementing his reputation as a respected leader within the surf lifesaving community. His legacy at Sorrento endures as one defined by courage, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.
2026 City of Joondalup Active Citizenship (Group or Event) – Joondalup City RSL
Joondalup City RSL is one of Western Australia’s youngest yet most forward thinking sub branches, built on a strong commitment to supporting veterans, their families, and the wider Joondalup community. Their work extends far beyond traditional services – they offer compassionate advocacy, practical welfare assistance, and meaningful opportunities for connection and well being.
For veterans facing challenges such as transition, injury, or isolation, the Joondalup City RSL provides a place of belonging and understanding, creating a supportive environment where individuals and families feel valued and connected.
As an active community partner, the Joondalup City RSL plays a vital role in preserving remembrance and strengthening civic pride. Their regular Commemorative Services bring the community together to honour service and sacrifice, while their education and outreach efforts ensure that the stories of Australia’s military history continue to resonate with young people and families.
Through their leadership, compassion, and dedication, the Joondalup City RSL enriches the lives of veterans and contributes to a stronger, more connected Joondalup community.
Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony 2026
