A very humble and honoured John Copus was named Dungog Shire’s Citizen of the Year on Australia Day.
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Ken Russell received the sports award.
In receiving his award at a packed James Theatre, John said each of the other nominees were worthy recipients.
“I was at the directors’ meeting at the Dungog Memorial RSL Club when the letter came in from [Dungog] council asking for nominations,” he said.
“I didn’t think anything was going to be done about it, but unbeknown to me, a few people put me forward.
“As a parent with children you get involved with sport and things they are interested in.
“And I certainly got a lot of joy out of doing it.
“My wife and family have been very supportive, not just last year [when I was sick] but over many, many years.
“I accept this award as an honour.”
John has been involved with a lot of organisations over many years that play a significant role in the community.
He has been involved with Dungog Preschool, Dungog junior rugby league, cricket, tennis, swimming club and golf.
He was treasurer at Lara Aged Care for eight years and treasurer at Dungog Memorial RSL Club for 16 years and still holds this position.
Ken Russell has been involved in and contributed to, a range of sports in the Dungog area since 1959.
These include tennis, junior rugby league, cricket, athletics and more recently lawn bowls.
He has been both a coach and player and has always given back to the many sports he has been involved in.
Dungog’s Australia Day ambassador was George Ellis, one of the nation’s top musical director and conductor.
George said his parents were both Greek and made the decision to come to Australia for a better life.
“They grew up in Alexandria but wanted to make a better life for their future family,” he said.
“My father chose Australia as he heard it was the land of opportunity and had many virtues.
“This land has given me many opportunities.
“On our drive up here yesterday I saw the beautiful lush country side and I know you have the Barrington Tops and the Chichester State Forest on your doorstep.
“And look at this beautiful theatre.
“I have been all around the world but there is nothing like Australia, I love it with all my heart.”
