Three Ballarat volunteers honoured with $5000 charity grants
Neil Para, Chenay Wilkinson and Bec Ware won 2026 Mars Snacking Ballarat Community Heroes Awards. Each received $5000 for their nominated charity.
The trio were recognised for stepping up across emergency services, sport and business in Ballarat. Neil Para has volunteered with the State Emergency Service for eight years as a crew leader.
In 2023 he completed a 1000 kilometre walk to Sydney. The 1000 kilometre walk raised awareness for migrant families seeking permanent residency.
Chenay Wilkinson serves as president of Sebastopol Football Netball Club. She volunteers more than 35 hours each week.
Chenay Wilkinson expanded the junior girls program to two teams. She brought back Auskick and created an Indigenous jersey.
She pushed for facility upgrades. Her $5000 award will help fund club memberships.
Bec Ware was also honoured for her contribution to the community. Mars Snacking director Scott Pettit said the winners created safer spaces for women.
They supported people in crisis. They helped the next generation feel included in sport.
- $5000
- Award amount per winner
- 8 years
- Neil Para SES tenure
- 1000 kilometres
- Neil Para's walk distance
- more than 35 per week
- Chenay Wilkinson volunteer hours
Why it mattersRecognising these volunteers publicly inspires others to get involved. It shows how ordinary people can transform their community.
AustraliaBallarat's network of local volunteers is strengthened when contributions are celebrated, making the region more resilient and inclusive.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 14 h ago
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