Judith Williams wins Citizen of the Year

Ms Williams came to Yass around 50 years ago, served as a councillor for two decades and continues to work with community groups and not-for-profit organisations.

On Monday morning she attended the annual Rotary Australia Day Breakfast and was startled to hear mayor Rowena Abbey announce her as the award recipient.

"I was more than surprised, I was shocked to win," she told the Tribune.

"The General Manager, Mr Rowe, contacted me a few weeks agoand asked if I could be there but I thought it was just to help out with a few things or do a few chores ... it was quite overwhelming really."

Ms Williams said she came to Yass a little reluctantly all those years ago, but today she admits that Yass "owns" her.

"I definitely belong to this town and I have really fallen in love with it over the years.

"What I like is its sense of community, its wonderful country spirit and the fact that everyone here seems to care about one another.

"That, along with the Valley's beautiful scenery, has made it a special place to live."

Judith worked as a nurse in obstetrics and it was here where she began to fall in love with the people.

"I remember when I started I was told that the hospital needed people in obstetrics, I went there, then I never left."

She went on to serve as an enthusiastic councillor for 21 years and she admitted that she misses that role considerably.

"I really enjoyed having the information that was available to me about the progress of the town and I loved being a part of the decision-making as to the future of the town, on behalf of the people I represented. I do miss it."

Today she is a member of a number of council committees including the Murrumbateman Old School Grounds and Library, Yass Memorial Hall and Home Living Support Services committees.

She also remains heavily involved with the St Vincents de Paul Society where she helps many local residents.

"I will continue to be involved in these committees and with St Vincent de Paul until I'm no longer able and can no longer make a contribution."

Despite this busy life, Judith believes she's just your average local resident.

"I am very much an ordinary person so don't make me sound amazing or special in this story you're going to write," she laughed.