And, this year Dorothy Vickery was named Guyra’s Citizen of the Year.

Armidale Regional Council mayor Simon Murray said it was important to recognise the contributions of volunteers especially in small communities.

“Volunteers put in so much effort for the community,” Cr Murray said.

“And, Dot Vickery is just a really lovely person.”

”I also enjoyed ambassador Steve Widders speech – it was pertinent to the occasion and he did it well, I thought he spoke really well.”

Former councillor Dot Vickery has a long list of community contributions.

Among those contributions are decades of fundraising for the Cancer Council NSW.

The redevelopment of the Guyra Museum has been a longstanding passion for Ms Vickery, where she continues to volunteer and keep it open for viewings.

Now, she’s become a part of our town’s history herself.

As the Kolora Hostel for aged-care residents nears closer to completion, Ms Vickery has made herself the backbone of its establishment.

An avid member of the garden club, Ms Vickery is always the first to lend a hand at the Guyra Neighbourhood Centre.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall attended the awards night.

He said that without people like Dot Vickery the community would be a shadow of itself.

“I cannot think of a more deserving recipient of the Guyra Citizen of the year,” Mr Marshall said.

“Her name is synonymous with the Kolora development – she’s very passionate about that.

“She’s been involved in so many community organisations and campaigns for decades, you would think she might be looking to wind down but it’s exactly the opposite.” Mr Marshall stressed the importance of volunteers. “Small towns are built on the back of volunteers – local people who give themselves to help their community,” he said.