An Indigenous New South Wales local government professional has been named the 2026 recipient of the Councillor Pat Dixon Memorial Scholarship.

Bega Valley Shire Council Project Officer Dillon Aldridge received the scholarship at the recent Local Government Week Awards, which were hosted by Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW).

Mr Aldridge was selected in recognition of his dedication to Bega Valley Shire Council and his commitment to making a lasting impact in his community.

LGNSW President Mayor Darcy Byrne congratulated Mr Aldridge on his achievements.

"Supporting the next generation of Aboriginal leaders in Local Government is vital, and I am proud LGNSW helps administer this scholarship on behalf of the trustees," Mayor Byrne said.

"Dillon's commitment to furthering his career in Local Government embodies the values that this scholarship was created to recognise and celebrate."

The Yuin and Kamilaroi man — who lives on Djiringanj Country on NSW's Far South Coast — has dedicated more than 14 years to Bega Valley Shire Council.

He plans to use the scholarship to study engineering through the University of Adelaide and continue to build a career delivering essential public services for regional communities.

Mr Aldridge said the scholarship was both an honour and an investment in the future.

"We need more of our people at the table and throughout my career I have been involved, and will continue to be involved, in promoting and sustaining Indigenous employment," Mr Aldridge said.

"The opportunity to work and live within our communities carries huge benefits. By being a role model for my community, I hope to reflect a positive outlook on our potential and skills

"For me, this degree is a step towards Black excellence. It will help me build on my practical experience and continue progressing into senior infrastructure and project management roles where I can contribute to delivering essential services for regional communities."

The annual scholarship honours the legacy of the late Cr Pat Dixon, a passionate advocate for creating opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Local Government.

Administered by LGNSW on behalf of the Cr Pat Dixon Memorial Trust, the scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander councillors and council staff for education, research and professional development.

Cr Pat Dixon's family representative and Scholarship Trustee, Warren Roberts congratulated Mr Aldridge on his achievement.

"Dillon's achievement is a wonderful example of the talent, determination and leadership that exists within Aboriginal communities across NSW. On behalf of Aunty Pat's family, I congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition," Mr Roberts said.

"This scholarship is an investment in leaders like Dillon who are not only advancing their own careers but also helping to create pathways for others. I congratulate him and wish him every success with his engineering studies and future leadership journey."