A total of 53 nominations were received across 11 award categories this year, highlighting the depth of talent and dedication within the City's sporting community. Following assessment by an independent judging panel, 32 finalists have been selected.
The finalists represent 24 different sports, ranging from athletics and baseball to ballroom dancing, rugby union and CrossFit. They also come from 14 local clubs and 10 sporting associations and organisations, demonstrating the broad reach and strength of sport across the City of Rockingham.
Mayor Lorna Buchan said the awards continue to showcase the exceptional athletes, volunteers, clubs and programs helping to make Rockingham a thriving sporting community.
"The Sports Star Awards celebrate the people and organisations who contribute to sport at every level, from emerging junior athletes and dedicated volunteers to successful clubs and inclusive community programs.
"Our finalists reflect the incredible diversity of sport in our community, and the commitment, perseverance and passion that drive sporting success both on and off the field.
"These awards are an opportunity to recognise those who inspire others and strengthen our community."
Now in its 29th year, the Sports Star Awards have recognised hundreds of local sporting achievers, with many past recipients progressing to state, national and international success.
Winners will be announced at the 2026 Sports Star Awards ceremony on Wednesday, 16 September, where finalists will be celebrated alongside family, friends, teammates and supporters.
The City acknowledges the generous contribution of this year's sponsors, led by major sponsor Sound Telegraph, as well as Rotary Club of Palm Beach WA, Life Spring Float Tanks and Revo Fitness for their valued support. Their contribution plays an important role in recognising and rewarding the outstanding achievements of local athletes, volunteers, clubs and sporting organisations.
For more information, visit Sports Star Awards.
2026 Sports Star Awards Finalists
Junior Sports Star of the Year
- Aiden McGuiness – Baldivis Basketball Club
- Brielle Dredge – Swimming
- Christopher Clarke – Athletics / AFL / Basketball
- Martha McClements – West Track Club (Athletics)
- Noah McCabe – WA Allstars Baseball
Senior Sports Star of the Year
- Cain Hayes – CrossFit
- Dean Neal – Karate
- Ryan Woodall – CrossFit
- Simon Mills – Para and Ability Dance Western Australia
Junior Volunteer of the Year
- Jade Harris – Baldivis Volleyball Association
- Judah Nsalange – Basketball (All Abilities, Bizlink)
- Molly Jones – Rockingham City Football Club
Team of the Year
- Injustice CrossFit
- Rockingham Rugby Union – RugbyWA Championship Grade Senior Men’s
- Secret Harbour Surf Life Saving Club – Australian Life Saving Championships
Club of the Year
- Baldivis Athletics Centre
- Rockingham City Football Club
- Rockingham Districts Little Athletics Centre
- Rockingham PCYC Gymnastics
- Rockingham Triathlon Club
Inclusion Program or Event of the Year
- i-League Soccer – Rockingham City Football Club
- No Limits Netball – Rockingham Districts Netball Association
- Tennis 4 All – South Mandurah Tennis Club (Baldivis Tennis Club)
Volunteer of the Year
- Cara Simpson – Nimbus Netball Club
- Erin Old-Acres Dear – Warnbro Netball Club
- Les Thomas – The Cruising Yacht Club (Sailing)
- Liz Robinson – Rockingham Parkrun
- Terri Francis – Rockingham City Football Club
Awards will also be presented in the following categories:
- Master Sports Star of the Year
- Sports Star of the Year with Disability
- Club Governance Award
- John Brown Lifetime Achievement Memorial Award