For more than 23 years as chief executive officer of one of the region’s most-loved charities, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Mr Jones has displayed exceptional leadership and has been nationally recognised for his outstanding service to the Hunter community. 

Born and bred in the Hunter, he played four seasons for the St George Dragons, before returning to Singleton to act as captain-coach with the Greyhounds. 

His 1990 premiership-winning side was also awarded the Clayton’s Cup for the best team in NSW Country football.

In 2017, Mr Jones was named in the Top 20 “Greatest Singleton Greyhounds” side. 

No stranger to accolades, the Medal of the Order of Australia winner will address nominees at council’s annual cocktail party on Thursday, January 25, and at the presentation of awards at the Singleton Civic Centre ceremony on Australia Day. 

Following formalities, a line-up of family activities will follow on the Civic Centre lawn from 10.30am until 1.30pm. 

“Australia Day brings our community together to celebrate what’s special about our beautiful country,” mayor Sue Moore said.

“From ‘live’ music, a giant water slide, food and market stalls, bubble mania and our annual thong-throwing competition, there’s plenty of fun and entertainment planned.

“We are privileged to have Richard as our Australia Day guest to assist us in recognising our Citizen and Young Achiever of the Year. 

“We have so many exceptional people in Singleton who volunteer their time to a range of causes in our community.

“I am looking forward to meeting our nominees and thanking them for the work they do.” 

A gold coin donation entry will also be available at the Singleton Gym and Swim Pool between 10am and4pm, with all proceeds to go to the Swimability Program.