Lorraine Kefford was named the 2021 citizen of the year, while Karen Davy took home the achiever of the year honour.

Mrs Kefford was nominated for her efforts as a volunteer over countless years in Leeton shire.

That has covered everything from schools and the Leeton-Whitton Football and Netball Club to the Rural Fire Service, the Whitton Tidy Towns Committee, Whitton Skate Park Committee and many more.

"It's a bit of a shock," Mrs Kefford said after receiving the award. "You volunteer just to help others out.

"I like to be a part of the community that we love.

"I'm very honoured to be here and receive this honour."

Mrs Davy, a proud Wiradjuri woman, was also recognised for her many years of hard work and efforts in making sure all residents have equal opportunities, especially children and access to education.

She is the current chief executive officer of the Leeton and District Aboriginal Land Council and has been instrumental in advocating for Indigenous people living in the shire, creating and co-ordinating events for the community and more.

IN OTHER NEWS:

In accepting her award, Mrs Davy was thrilled with the honour.

"Everything I do is only possible because of the work of someone else before me," she said.

"I can't thank mayor Paul Maytom enough for all the support he has given us and the recent partnership with Leeton Community Care Development which has brought about the Ngumbaay Leeton, which means One Leeton.

"We work together for our community. Australia Day brings up a lot of emotions for an Aboriginal person.

"One day hopefully the date will be changed, but at the moment it is pretty amazing to ... see the respect the people of Leeton have (for the Indigenous community)."

Mrs Davy also thanked Travis Irvin for his dedication and support of her efforts over the years, especially when it comes to education for all.