Described as making “valuable contributions” to a number of Nundle projects and organisations over some eight years, Mr Atchison has used his building skills and given his time to benefit the community as a whole.

The Riverside Walk Project, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Nundle Go For Gold Festival, Nundle Visitor Information Centre, Nundle Pony Club, Nundle Public School and Nundle Business, Tourism and Marketing Group Inc are among the activities or groups Mr Atchison has helped in some way.

Erica Eather, a student at Nundle Public School, was named Junior Citizen of the Year.

Miss Eather, a student leader at her school last year, had notable achievements in school debating including being selected in a team of five to represent the New England Region in the Premier’s Debating Challenge

While Shirley Ryan received the Community Appreciation Award and Nundle District Lions Club was presented with the Community Organisation or Event Award in recognition of its operation of the Nundle Court House Museum which was recently refurbished.

She played a significant role in helping fundrais for the Easy-Walk Project and has given her time to volunteer for the Hanging Rock Bush Fire Brigade and other Hanging Rock organisations.