Released 01/01/2018
Much-loved Canberra icon, Constable Kenny Koala, is among the 106 individuals and 31 organisations being recognised with a 2026 Canberra Gold Award.
The Chief Minister’s Canberra Gold Awards recognise people and organisations that have helped make our city a great place to live, work and enjoy for more than 50 years.
Constable Kenny’s history in Canberra began with a guest appearance on Capital television show, Junior Police 7 in September 1975. With ACT Policing, he has gone on to deliver safety messages to more than 20,000 children in Canberra schools each year.
“As Chief Minister, every year it is a pleasure to be a part of the Gold Awards and celebrate what truly makes our city great – our people.
“These awards are a chance to recognise individuals and organisations whose contributions, whether big or small, enrich our community and continue to shape Canberra.
“Constable Kenny is an iconic part of Canberra’s history and much-loved by multiple generations of Canberrans. He effectively shares important messages on road safety, protective behaviours, online safety, decision making and consequences, helping children in our community to remain safe,” the Chief Minister said.
Of the 31 groups receiving a Canberra Gold Award in 2026, there are eight public schools, a diverse range of sports and social clubs, the Voluntary Guides of the Australian War Memorial and the Canberra Potters Society.
Since 2005, almost 5000 individuals and more than 200 groups have received Canberra Gold Awards.
For a full list of Canberra Gold Awards recipients in 2026 visit: https://www.act.gov.au/community/honours-and-awards/canberra-gold-awards.
Quote from Constable Kenny Koala, ACT Policing:
“After being a part of the Canberra community for 50 years, I have come to truly appreciate the warmth, generosity, and friendliness of everyone you meet. The people, in particular the young people I visit in schools every day, are the heart, soul and energy behind the community which inspires me every day and makes me feel very lucky to call Canberra home.”
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Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases