Dungog Citizen of the Year 2023

Dungog Shire has recognised an outstanding group of locals who have made big impacts to the community through social justice, environmental conservation, sporting excellence and significant community contributions with the presentation of the 2023 Australia Day Awards.

The prestigious 2023 Citizen of the Year Award has been awarded to James Ashton.

Social justice and community crusader, James was instrumental in forming the Martins Creek Quarry Action Group. He has proven himself a voice for the people, fighting hard for the rights of residents across the Shire in their opposition to the quarry expansion.

Award winners across all categories who were recognised for their significant community contributions are:

JUNIOR SPORTS AWARD: Georgia McDonald

SENIOR SPORTS AWARD: Lachlan Richardson

VOLUNTEER SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY AWARD: Susan Dillon and Pauline Cambourne

ENVIRONMENTAL CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: William Dowling

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Gwen Rumble

2023 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: James Ashton