Cr Sandice McAulay recognised for outstanding civic leadership

Published on 04 September 2026

Murrindindi Shire Councillor Sandice McAulay has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to civic leadership and the community at the 2026 Mary Rogers Awards.

Cr McAulay received the highest number of nominations for the Mary Rogers Award, reflecting the high regard in which she is held following almost a decade of civic leadership characterised by compassion, integrity and a commitment to bringing people together.

First elected to Council in 2016, Cr McAulay has served as Deputy Mayor and two terms as Mayor, providing leadership through some of the most challenging periods experienced by the Murrindindi community, including the COVID-19 pandemic, significant economic transition and the 2026 bushfires.

Murrindindi Shire Council Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the recognition reflected both Cr McAulay’s contribution to Council and her deep commitment to the community.

“Cr McAulay’s recognition reflects her untiring commitment to community, her ability to bring people together during challenging times, and almost a decade of service characterised by empathy, integrity and a genuine desire to improve outcomes for the people of Murrindindi,” Cr Gallagher said.

“Sandice has an ability to build bridges, listen to different perspectives and work respectfully through complex and sometimes difficult issues. That approach has earned her enormous respect across our organisation and community”.

“We saw those qualities particularly strongly following the 2026 bushfires, when Sandice was a visible and trusted presence for residents, businesses and farmers. She listened, advocated and worked to make sure the experiences and needs of our communities were heard”.

Throughout her time on Council, Cr McAulay has championed economic development and opportunities for local businesses, community resilience and sustainability, emergency preparedness, community infrastructure and inclusive participation.

She has supported major strategic initiatives including Council’s Economic Development Strategy and the Shaping Murrindindi project, which engaged hundreds of residents in shaping the Shire’s future during a period of significant economic transition following the cessation of native timber harvesting in Victorian state forests.

Cr McAulay has also been a strong advocate for equity and inclusion, including improved opportunities and facilities for women and girls in sport, and has mentored emerging women leaders in local government.

Her commitment to community extends beyond the Council chamber. Cr McAulay is a long-standing CFA volunteer and emergency management advocate and has served for several years on Council’s Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee.

“Sandice demonstrates that civic leadership is about much more than the position you hold, it is about showing up, listening, bringing people together and continuing to advocate for your community when it matters most,” Cr Gallagher said.

“On behalf of Council, I congratulate Sandice on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for her continued contribution to Murrindindi Shire.”

The Mary Rogers Awards celebrate the contribution and achievements of women in local government and recognise outstanding civic leadership across Victoria