Professor Tamara Blakemore has been named the new Ambassador for Lake Macquarie during the 2026 Lake Mac Awards ceremony held on Friday evening.
The annual awards recognise individuals and organisations who make significant contributions to the community and inspire positive change across the city.
Professor Blakemore was honoured for her work supporting young people affected by violence. She helped develop the “Name, Narrate, Navigate” program, which assists young people in understanding and dealing with violence in their lives.
Her work has also focused on training professionals in the field. Over the years, she has trained more than 2,500 practitioners, helping them better understand and respond to youth violence. Her research has also attracted about $6.5 million in funding to the region.
Adam Shultz, the mayor of Lake Macquarie, said Professor Blakemore’s achievements show how regional communities can play an important role in addressing global social challenges.
“Tamara is a shining example of the resilience, dedication and innovation that define our community,” he said. “The judging panel was extremely impressed with her achievements, and I look forward to working with her as our Ambassador over the next 12 months.”
Professor Blakemore said the recognition was especially meaningful because her family has lived in Lake Macquarie for generations.
“I feel like this gives me a chance to bring what I know from work, from practice and from life back into my community,” she said. “Having grown up here, I can bring a genuine and authentic voice to Lake Mac.”
She added that her work is driven by a commitment to support young people who have experienced violence.
“Young people who use violence have often experienced violence themselves, and too often those experiences are not understood together,” she said. “My focus is on working with them in a way that recognises who they are and who they can become.”
Belinda Tynan, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at the University of Newcastle, said the award reflects the significant impact of Professor Blakemore’s work.
“We are incredibly proud of Professor Blakemore’s contributions to our region and are delighted to see her recognised by the Lake Macquarie community,” she said.
The 2026 Lake Mac Awards, sponsored by Avondale University and Glendale City Centre, featured 12 award categories celebrating community leadership and service.
Other winners included Shania Aiolupotea, who was named Young Ambassador of the Year for her leadership at the Southlakes Roosters Rugby League Football Club.
The Belmont Hospital Volunteers group won Community Group of the Year for their fundraising and support work.
Environmental organisation The Groundswell Collective received the Contribution to Sustainability and the Environment award, while Jamal Box was named Volunteer of the Year for helping strengthen flood rescue operations across regional units of the NSW State Emergency Service.
Mayor Shultz congratulated all the winners and finalists, noting that the awards highlight the efforts of individuals and groups who help improve the community.
“Each year, the Lake Mac Awards shine a light on the amazing people and organisations quietly making our city a better place,” he said.
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