Due to rain the last three years, the event has not been held in Jubilee Park since 2006.

And while the weather was hot and humid last Tuesday, it was still nice to have the ceremony in the park and watch the flag raising ceremony by Dungog Guides.

Australia Day Ambassador James Pittar, wife Jenny and daughter Annica were welcomed by Dungog Mayor Glenn Wall.

A long distance marathon swimmer, James has been legally blind since he was 16.

James said it was great to be an Australian.

“We have wonderful opportunities in this country,” he said.

“I have been lucky enough to travel the world doing marathon swims and it is always great to come home again.

“This is the greatest country in the world.

“Family and friends are very important to me and without their support I wouldn’t be able to achieve what I have.”

Dungog Shire’s Citizen of the Year Chris Fibbens said the real joy in life is helping others.

“This award is not just for me, it is for all the nominees here today,” he said.

“You have all worked very hard in your respective fields.”

Young Citizen of the Year was Lucy Morris while Mark Bale was named Young Achiever of the Year.

Samantha Simmonds, who was in Sydney playing baseball, was the Sports Award recipient.

Sue Dillon from Gresford received the Service to Sport Award.

Mrs Dillon thanked the Paterson River Pony Club for nominating her for the award.

“I am honoured to receive this award but there are a lot of people who have helped and supported me,” she said.

“Australia is one big group of volunteers – that’s what makes it a great place.”

Janine Epere received the Community Service Award on behalf of Destiny Haven.

The late Betty Ewin, who was nominated by the Dungog-Clarence Country Women’s Association for Citizen of the Year, received a special award.

Cr Glenn Wall said the Australian Day selection committee asked council to introduce a stand alone award that can be presented posthumously to the family of those that may have been nominated and sadly passed away.

“This Certificate of Meritorious Commendation is awarded to Mrs Elizabeth Ewin in recognition of her exemplary and distinguished service to the greater Dungog Shire; the Community of Clarence Town and the Country Woman's Association.”

The award was accepted by her husband Gordon Ewin.