The search is on for unsung heroes and inspiring leaders as Cairns Regional Council calls for nominees in the 2011 Citizen of the Year Awards.

Mayor Val Schier will launch the annual appeal today, designed to honour community members from across the region who work to enrich the lives of others.

“Every year Council asks people to put forward someone they know who has worked selflessly to help others or has taken great leadership – someone who is a great example of what it is to be Australian. 

"And we know there are extraordinary people out there held in great esteem by the community, " Cr Schier said.

“We ask people to take the initiative to fill out a form and nominate someone you know who inspires them, someone who through their efforts has made a real difference to the community.” 

Nominations are invited from individuals for the categories of Citizen of the Year, Junior Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Sportsperson of the Year and a Cultural Award for the Arts.

Nominees are required to be residents of the Cairns Regional Council area.  Nominations lodgements will close on Friday December 3.  

Individuals can qualify for nomination in any field of endeavour including the arts, education, community work or business.