STEPS is proud to celebrate the nomination of Yvonne Coleman, our Northern Territory Regional Manager, for Citizen of the Year in the 2026 Palmerston Australia Day Awards.
Presented annually by the City of Palmerston, the award recognises and honours individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service, leadership and commitment to the community, shining a light on people whose dedication has a lasting impact on making Palmerston “a place for people.”
Yvonne said she was surprised to be nominated and considers it to be a great honour.
“I feel very proud,” Yvonne said. “I love the sense of community at Palmerston, it is so rewarding to be here with everyone. Being nominated for this award is amazing and I feel very grateful.”
STEPS CEO Cassie Stanley said that Yvonne’s nomination recognises her exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to supporting communities across Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs through her work with STEPS.
“Yvonne is one of the most hardworking people I know,” Cassie said. “When I think about what makes me proud of STEPS, our community spirit is top of mind, and Yvonne is community personified.”
Since stepping into her role, she has led with compassion and clarity, fostering strong partnerships and empowering STEPS team members, participants and clients in the organisation’s Education and Training programs.
From championing inclusive education and building strong community ties, Yvonne’s work embodies the very spirit of the Citizen of the Year award.
The winners of the 2026 Palmerston Australia Day Awards will be announced at a ceremony on Monday 26 January 2026. We’re honoured to have Yvonne recognised among Palmerston’s most dedicated leaders, we congratulate her on this well-deserved nomination and wish her and all nominees the best for the ceremony.
