Mingara honoured with prestigious Salvation Army “Others Award”
Mingara Recreation Club has been recognised with The Salvation Army’s prestigious “Others Award”, honouring more than two decades of commitment to supporting people in need across the Central Coast.
Presented at the 2026 Red Shield Appeal Launch this week, the award acknowledges organisations that demonstrate an extraordinary spirit of service to others and make a meaningful, lasting contribution to their community. This award is one of the highest honours The Salvation Army can give to a non Salvation Army organisation.
The award takes its name from a one-word message, “Others”, sent by The Salvation Army founder William Booth in the early 1900s. The message has since become central to the organisation’s mission, representing a life lived in service beyond self.
Mingara has proudly partnered with The Salvation Army for more than 20 years, sponsoring and hosting the annual Red Shield Appeal Launch and ensuring funds raised are directed towards supporting local people experiencing hardship. Over this time, the partnership has contributed more than $1 million in value to the Central Coast community.
Mingara CEO Grant Gladman said the recognition was a reflection of the organisation’s long-standing commitment to our community. “This award means a great deal to us because it reflects something deeper than what we do – it reflects why we do it,” Mr Gladman said. “At Mingara, our purpose has always been to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Our partnership with The Salvation Army is a powerful way we can support those in our community who are doing it tough, with dignity and care.” Beyond financial support, the entire Mingara team have contributed their time, leadership and expertise to Salvation Army initiatives, committees and local fundraising efforts.
Chair Ian Robilliard OAM, said the recognition belonged to the entire Mingara community. “This is not just an award for Mingara, it belongs to our team, our members and our community who continue to show up for others every day,” Mr Robilliard said. “We are incredibly proud of our long-standing partnership with The Salvation Army and the impact it continues to have right here on the Central Coast.”
Funds raised through the Red Shield Appeal support a range of critical local services, including emergency relief, financial counselling, homelessness support and youth programs – ensuring help is available for people when they need it most.
During the award presentation, The Salvation Army’s Public Relations & Community Engagement Manager – North NSW, Rodney Dibley said Mingara’s contribution had made a lasting impact in the region. “Mingara has shown an extraordinary commitment to our community over many years,” he said. “Their support goes beyond financial contributions – it is their genuine care, leadership and willingness to stand alongside us that has helped bring hope, dignity and practical support to so many people on the Central Coast.”
Mingara’s recognition with the “Others Award” reinforces its ongoing commitment to strengthening community life and supporting those who need it most.