FoodShare is proud to announce it has been named a finalist in three categories of the 2026 Optus Albury Wodonga Business Awards, recognising the organisation’s commitment to innovation, community impact and the dedicated people who make its work possible.
FoodShare has been shortlisted in the following categories:
- Excellence in Innovation
- Outstanding Community Organisation
- Outstanding Employee – Nicole Eirth, Community Pantry Coordinator
The Optus Albury Wodonga Business Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, growth and resilience across the region’s business and community sector. This year’s program attracted more than 200 entries, with 85 finalists recognised across 17 award categories.
For FoodShare CEO Katrina Pawley, the recognition belongs to the entire FoodShare community.
“To be recognised alongside so many outstanding businesses and organisations across our region is a tremendous honour. These nominations reflect the passion, generosity and commitment of our volunteers, staff, supporters and partners who work together every day to build food security across our community.”
A special congratulations goes to Community Pantry Coordinator Nicole Eirth, whose individual finalist nomination recognises her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to ensuring every person accessing FoodShare’s Community Pantry is welcomed with dignity, compassion and respect.
Nicole has played a pivotal role in the continued growth of the Community Pantry, helping create a welcoming space where hundreds of local families each month can access healthy food in an environment that promotes choice, connection and hope.
The finalist recognition also acknowledges FoodShare’s ongoing commitment to innovation. Over the past year, the organisation has continued to expand its regional food rescue and redistribution network, strengthen partnerships across North East Victoria and Southern NSW, and develop new approaches that improve access to nutritious food while reducing food waste.
As FoodShare celebrates 15 years of serving the community, these nominations are a reminder of what can be achieved when a region comes together with a shared purpose.
The winners of the 2026 Optus Albury Wodonga Business Awards will be announced at the Gala Awards Night on Friday, 7 August 2026.
FoodShare congratulates every finalist and wishes all businesses, organisations and individuals the very best for the awards.
