The awards, described as the Gore District Council's flagship event, started 12 years ago.
This year's awards attracted 53 nominees across the 10 categories.
Gore Mayor Tracy Hicks said the calibre of nominees was once again impressive and "the dedication and innovation across all categories is quite inspiring''.
"The Community Awards resonates with so many and confirms the fact our district's strength is in our people,'' Mr Hicks said.
Each year, the Community Awards bring together people from all sectors of the community, and 2018 was no different as nominees ranged from teenagers to volunteers in their 80s.
The Civic Award was won by Kay Lawton, known to many in the community as Nani K. She is well-known in many spheres: as a shearing contractor, for her work with the church and for sharing her knowledge of Maori traditions with the next generation.
Guest speaker was Ian Taylor, of Animation Research Ltd in Dunedin, who revolutionised digital animation of television sports coverage and presented the recent proposal for the Dunedin waterfront.
The full list of this year's recipients. -
Civic award
Kay Lawton.
Mainland Minerals Environment Award
Winner: Hokonui Tramping Club. Runner-up: Gore High School "Science Around Us''. "Class 90: Young Reporters''.
Anderson Lloyd Contribution to Arts And Culture Award
Jeff and Margie Rea.
MLT Services to Sport Award
Liz Maclean - hockey.
Eastern Southland Junior Sportsperson Award
Mikairi Beauchamp-Moore - athletics and hockey.
Sport Southland Community Coach of the Year Award
Vicky Weller - netball
Gore Musical Theatre Emerging Performing Artist Award
Campbell Heads.
Soroptimist International of Gore Woman of the Year
Julie Mitchell.
JD Souness Young Achiever Award
Georgia Thomson.
The Ensign Customer Service Award
Winner: Amore.
Peoples' Choice
Harrison's Supplies Ltd.
