Lucy Durack urges West Aussies to nominate local talent for Western Australian of the Year Awards

In the past 12 months stage favourite Lucy Durack has turned to television alongside comedian Sam Pang, voiced a unicorn kindy teacher in a children’s cartoon, producing various screen writes, lit up Christmas Carols events with her enchanting voice and continued to lead her much-loved Glee Club.

The acclaimed WA performer — best known for playing Glinda in the Australian production of Wicked and Elle Woods in Legally Blonde: The Musical — says the past year has been as busy as ever.

It follows her being recognised last year at the Western Australian of the Year Awards, where she was named the 2025 recipient of the Crown Arts and Culture Award.

Durack, a WAAPA graduate who is now based in Melbourne, said the accolade was deeply meaningful.

“It was a huge honour to receive the award from my home state, and it opened the door for a set of regional WA shows which was incredible,” she said.

Now, as nominations close this Friday for the 2026 awards, Durack is encouraging West Australians to shine a light on the creative — and sometimes quietly extraordinary — people in their own communities.

“If you’ve got a friend, or know someone who is quite creative — just put them forward,” she said. “Even if they’re creative in the somewhat mundane everyday work they do, thinking outside that box is a creative endeavour of its own.”

Past recipients have gone on to expand community programs, launch innovative businesses and represent WA on national and international stages — reinforcing the awards’ role in elevating local impact to broader recognition and ensuring their contributions continue to inspire well beyond the ceremony night.

Celebrate WA chairman Scott Jones said the awards recognise and showcase the talent and contributions of West Australians across categories including community, business, arts and culture, sport, youth, professions and Aboriginal leadership.

“Every year we are reminded of the depth of talent and generosity across Western Australia. The Western Australian of the Year Awards shine a light on the individuals who are quietly, and sometimes boldly, shaping our communities, industries and culture,” he said.

Three finalists will be selected in each category, with winners announced at a gala ceremony at Crown Perth on May 28.

Nominations can be submitted by scanning the QR code or via the Celebrate WA website.