You know the song: Everyone needs good neighbours. On 18 June 2026, Lane Cove Council awarded its annual Neighbour Day Awards. These awards recognise neighbours who make a difference in their street or Lane Cove Community.
The Neighbour Day Awards are an opportunity to recognise neighbours who have selflessly given back to their local neighbourhoods. They are held in conjunction with the Lane Cove Citizenship Awards.
Sam Pigeon
Samuel is described by his neighbours as an exceptional member of their building community. He consistently goes out of his way to make people feel welcome, whether that is greeting neighbours with a smile, helping residents move in and out of the building without being asked, or simply showing a genuine interest in how people are going.
But perhaps what makes Samuel truly special is the way he brings people together. He regularly organises playtime for the children in the shared garage space, warmly inviting not only the kids but their parents and other residents to join in. That kind of initiative — spontaneous, generous, and inclusive is exactly what turns a building into a community.
Keith Cunliffe
Keith has lived in Lane Cove all his life. You will see Keith around Lane Cove in his trademark blue overalls – a fitting symbol of his unpretentious, reliable, always-ready-to-help character.
For decades, Keith has quietly supported some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our community, opening his home and his heart without ever seeking recognition. Despite significant health challenges, he has brought in his neighbour’s bins every single week for years.
At 85, through illness and exhaustion, he still shows up for the people around him – because that is simply who he is.
Meredith Koovarjee
Meredith is the type of neighbour that everyone needs in their apartment block. She is he one that welcomes new residents, builds community connections through her building’s WhatsApp group, suggests coffee mornings and dinners in Lane Cove. Her latest iniative is a book club.
She helps wherever something is needed, and yes, you will also find her walking a neighbour’s dog.
Her neighbours range across all ages and life stages — families, couples, singles — and Meredith brings them all together.
Her neighbour say: “We call Meredith our social organiser, but she is more than that.”
How Do I Nominate a Neighbour for an Award?
Every two years, the Lane Cove Council seeks nominations for the neighbourhood awards on its website. Nominations usually close around March. ITC also posts on our In the Cove Facebook site and in our Week in Review when nominations open, so keep an eye out for those posts.
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