The HBNC team was incredibly honoured to be named the winner of the Not-For-Profits, Community and Charities award at last week's Fraser Coast Business and Tourism Awards.

Taking some time out on Thursday to celebrate over afternoon tea, the team, led by CEO Tanya Stevenson, reflected on an eventful 12 months.

"The past year has seen the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre (HBNC) implement the long- term goal of creating the Neighbourhood Collective, our four community hubs. The opening of the Neighbourhood Hive, our learning and innovation hub, and the Urangan Community Wellness Centre has created opportunities for place-based innovative programs to support those who are most vulnerable. The HBNC also expanded a number of pilot programs including the Local Learning Network and Our Voice – youth employment," Tanya said.

She said the award recognised the hard work and dedication of all those involved with HBNC.

"I would like to start by sincerely thanking all the staff and volunteers for their commitment to their clients and the community. I would also like to thank the management committee for their guidance and contributions over the last 12 months," Tanya said.

Bernard Whebell, HBNC president, added his thoughts, saying the entire HBNC team should be proud of this achievement.

Bernard said it demonstrated the high standing HBNC enjoys in the community.

"When I read through various online forums and Facebook pages, and people are asking for help or guidance, I regularly see comments saying 'try HBNC'. That in itself is a testament to how we have become an integral part of the community; a go-to place," Bernard said.

He thanked the entire HBNC team, including frontline workers, administration staff and volunteers, for doing their part in improving the lives of the community's most vulnerable.

"We just get the job done, one meal, one trip or one bit of advice at a time," he said.

"The HBNC is not just a building, it is a team of people and if it wasn’t for this team, we wouldn’t achieve what we do."

Congratulations to the other finalists in the Not-For-Profit, Community and Charities category: Rally for a Cause (Highly Commended) and Fraser Coast Hospice Association.

Well done also to HBNC Operations Manager, Christian Berechree, who was a finalist for the Verena Fletcher Service of Excellence Award.