Board member Ryan Jones, who is driving the project, is calling on locals to nominate a neighbour, fellow volunteer or group member for their efforts to make Port Chalmers and West Harbour a great place to live.
"It's a chance to recognise the good sorts in our community, the busy people who get out there and do it, and who aren't often recognised,'' Mr Jones said.
"As in the rest of Dunedin and New Zealand, our local volunteers are the backbone of our community.''
Nominations close on May 5 and there will be five awards given - four outstanding contribution awards and one community champion award.
The nominations will be considered at the next West Harbour Community Board meeting on May 8.
The awards will be presented at a small social function for nominees, friends and family in mid-May.
Last year's community champion was stalwart local vet Terry Marler, and outstanding contribution awards went to Lana Oranje, Garry Bain, Kristina Goldsmith and Carol Dewar.
"The person named community champion has gone above and beyond in making a concerted effort over a long period of time - as Terry Marler has done,'' Mr Jones said.
Nominations, including a short description of the individual nominated and details of their work in the community (to a maximum of 500 words), can be sent to westharbourcommunityawards@gmail.com by May 5.
Anyone who wishes to nominate someone but is unsure of how to go about it is welcome to phone Ryan Jones on 022 432-1346.
BRENDA.HARWOOD @thestar.co.nz
