Outstanding locals were recognised for their contributions to the community.

The Upper Hunter Shire overall Citizen of the Year went to Aberdeen’s Frank Heap for his fundraising efforts with the Lions Club. 

Mr Heap has been a major influence in the club, raising more than $750,000 over the past 43 years.

Meanwhile, Scone’s Kirsten Smith took out the Upper Hunter Shire’s Young Citizen of the Year award for her achievements in sport. 

Ms Smith has represented Scone High School in swimming, athletics, cross country, netball, water polo, touch football and cricket.

In Muswellbrook, Barry French won the Citizen of the Year award for his attempts to bridge the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians.

Thomas Hogan claimed the young Citizen of the Year for his charity work and achievements in education.

Meanwhile, Carolyn Fallow and Brittnee Hyde captured the Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year awards in Murrurundi. 

Couple John and Elaine Sparrow were the joint-winners in Merriwa for their long service to the community. 

They have recently been project coordinators of the skate park redevelopment, which will cost more than $100,000.

Finally, Danny Eather was named Singleton’s Citizen of the Year, while Annie Nichols claimed the Young Achiever’s award.