So, if you know someone who fits this bill, don’t miss this opportunity to share community pride by nominating a person who has made a difference for a 2018 Australia Day Award.

Dance teacher and owner of Expressions School of Dance, mentor and volunteer Amy Foster was recognised for hard work, dedication and commitment to her students, as well as her outstanding volunteering efforts with the 2017 Young Citizen of the Year award.

She’s enjoyed her time in the role and encourages others to acknowledge the efforts of those in the community who go the extra mile by nominating them for an award.

“I have had a wonderful year and feel even more committed to our community,” she said.

Current Citizen of the Year Tony Neate is also urging residents to nominate a worthy recipient for an Australia Day Award.

Mr Neate’s reign will soon be over.

But, he says he’s relished every minute of it and believes the awards help to build a sense of community.

Awards are presented to individuals and organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to the shire in the field of community service, sport, agriculture, social inclusion, arts and culture, environment and education.

Categories include: Citizen of the Year; Young Citizen of the Year; Cultural Contributor, Young Cultural Contributor; Social Award; Education Award; Environment Award ; Northoak Award (Agriculture); Services to Sport; Sportsperson of the Year; Junior Sportsperson of the Year. 

Residents are asked to nominate a person or organisation who has made a significant contribution to the growth and wellbeing of the Muswellbrook Shire community.

Nominations, which close at midnight on December 3, can be completed online at the Muswellbrook Shire Council website or collect a form from the Council Administration Centre or Muswellbrook and Denman libraries.