Published on Friday, 23 January 2026 at 8:11:41 AM
It’s time to dig out those old photo albums and dust down those diaries, because the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale’s SJ Remembers Community History Awards are now open.
The biennial awards, being held for the second time, celebrate the Shire’s rich history and recognise community members who are helping preserve it.
There are five categories, with prizes including $500 for winners in each category, $200 for the runners up and an invite to the Community History Awards Presentation Night to be held later this year.
The categories are:
- Oral History - An audio recording of an interview with a current or former resident of the Shire.
- Written Memoir – A personal recollection of lived experiences within the Shire as a current or former resident. Can come in the form of diary extracts, autobiographical information or essays.
- Original Research - Research into various groups, place of interest or events in the Shire.
- Photographic Memory (pre-2000) - A photograph not already held in the Community History Collection taken prior to 2000.
- Jan Skillington Award – A special award covering all categories, which honours Jan Skillington, a local historian and archivist for WA’s State Library who played a vital role in shaping SJ’s community history collection.
You don’t need to be a full-time archivist to provide a submission – if you’re a history enthusiast, dedicated community member, or simply curious about your roots, the whole SJ community is encouraged to think about submitting an entry. You never know what you may find in the family archives!
The important stuff:
- Submit your nomination here
- 31 March 2026 - Entries close
- 25 June 2026 - Community History Awards Presentation Night
For inspiration, learn more about the 2024 SJ Remembers Community History Awards winners here
Comments attributable to Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale President Rob Coales:
“This year, the Shire celebrates the 65th anniversary of its gazettal as a local government. The SJ Remembers Community History Awards are a powerful way for our community to connect with the stories, people and moments that shape who we are today.
“Every photograph, memory and piece of research helps bring our past to life, strengthening our sense of belonging and helping future generations appreciate where we’ve come from.
“These awards also honour the legacy of Jan Skillington, whose passion for preserving local history has left a lasting impact on our community.
“The Jan Skillington Award recognises that same dedication to recording and sharing our stories, so they can be passed down through the generations.
“SJ is a special place and our history belongs to all of us. By sharing it we’re helping build a stronger, more connected and welcoming Shire for years to come.”
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