Mrs Capp arrived in Gresford from Scone in 1954 after her marriage to Bruce Capp and settled on the family property “Cawarra” and immediately immersed herself in numerous voluntary organisations across the Dungog Shire and beyond.

She took on roles in Red Cross as well as being part of the Telecross calling organisation for 16 years, calling an older person each morning for a chat and to ensure they are okay.

She became involved with the Anglican Church Guild, taking on the role of president in 1974, a role she still holds today.

She is president of the RSL Ladies Auxiliary and a member of the Gresford Show ladies committee, only resigning as president in 1998 as she believed it should pass to a younger member with newer and different directions.

Mrs Capp and other citizens and organisations were honoured for their unselfish dedication to making the Dungog Shire a better place on Sunday at the James Theatre.

Samantha Rumbel was also nominated for her dedication to sporting organisations and Simon Smith for his contribution to Radio Dungog.

Vacy Sportsground management committee was the winner of the Community Service Award for their improvement to the Vacy Oval precinct, Jared Ford won the sports award and Ellen Maytom was named Young Citizen.

Debbie Watson OAM, who is arguably the finest female water polo player that Australia has ever produced, was Dungog’s ambassador.

Her career has spanned 17 years at the elite level including participation and a gold medal at the 2000 Olympic Games held in Sydney.

“I was always involved in sport and thought I might follow a cricketing career – DK Walters, DK Lillie . . . DK Watson,” she said light-heartedly.

“To me Australia Day has always been spent with friends and family and game of backyard cricket.

“We celebrate what is good about Australia.

“We have amazing diversity which is steeped in the tradition of having a ‘fair go’.

“I have so much pride and respect and am proud of how we pull together in time of adversity and hardship.

“It’s how we rally together that makes me so proud.

“There are so many ordinary Australians doing extraordinary things every day.

“To see someone ‘having a go’ is very Australian and very rewarding.”

Ms Watson was a swimmer and netballer before having her knees reconstructed twice before she turned 15.

“But I then started to play water polo and clearly remember my name being called out for the National Australian open team – I was so thrilled and proud.

“My ultimate sporting experience was competing at the Australian Games in 2000.

“I was so proud to be representing Australia.

“We won six out of our seven games and standing on the dais listening to the National Anthem is something I will never forget.

“I am proud to be Australian and the honour to represent this wonderful country.”