✨ Geoff Leary Named 2026 Port Macquarie Citizen of the Year

Port Macquarie is celebrating Geoff Leary, who has been awarded the 2026 Port Macquarie Hastings Citizen of the Year. The recognition comes for his profound and dedicated service to the region's homeless population and those facing hardship.

A retired school principal, Mr Leary has channelled his retirement into impactful frontline community work. He is a key figure with Make a Difference (MAD) Port Macquarie, and also contributes to St Vincent de Paul and Sister Marjorie's outreach team. His commitment with MAD Port Macquarie ensures vital services, including meals, are delivered up to eight times a week.

Mr Leary has publicly voiced concerns about the escalating homelessness crisis in Port Macquarie, noting a dramatic increase in demand for services. He has observed firsthand how meal services, which once served fewer than ten people, now regularly support 25 to 35 individuals, and sometimes many more. This highlights a significant and growing challenge within the community.

Beyond providing food, Mr Leary's work embodies dignity, compassion, and connection. He actively encourages younger volunteers to get involved, fostering a spirit of service within the next generation. Despite his significant contributions, he consistently redirects praise to his fellow volunteers, emphasising the importance of the quiet, everyday acts of kindness that often go unnoticed.

His leadership, humility, and unwavering commitment have rightly earned him this prestigious award, underscoring the invaluable impact one individual can have on their community. The Port Macquarie Hastings Citizen of the Year award is a long-standing tradition recognising outstanding local contribution.