Fiona Quinney has continued on the same path that has seen her devote herself to and serve her community since she was 20 years old.

The now 64-year-old said she was the inaugural recipient of a junior citizen award in 1981.

On Sunday she was named the 2025 Parkes Citizen of the Year.

Fiona selflessly volunteers at Niola Baptist Care Nursing Home where she brings comfort and companionship to residents who rely on her kindness and presence.

She also regularly visits the residents of Southern Cross Village, offering support to those in need of companionship and emotions care, and organises a monthly social gathering for locals living with Parkinson's Disease, providing a safe and supportive environment for them to connect and share their experiences.

"Fiona Quinney is truly deserving of this prestigious award due to her unwavering dedication to others, despite her own personal health challenges," her award nomination read.

"Her efforts go beyond simple volunteering: she is often the first to step up when someone is in need, whether it be emotional support or assistance with medical issues.

"Fiona has a natural ability to empathise with others, giving her time and energy freely, without ever expecting anything in return.

"Her contributions are not just limited to her actions, but also reflect the deep love and concern she has for those around her."

Fiona said she was truly humbled by the award that was presented to her by Australia Day ambassador Tasman Cassim during the official Australia Day ceremony.

"I promise to keep doing my best for those around me," she said.

Meanwhile the 2025 Parkes Young Citizen of the Year award was presented to a very deserving Isabella Hughes.

This award was first established by Cr Robert Wilson OAM during his time as Mayor of Parkes to identify and acknowledge young upcoming leaders in our community.

Isabella is a dedicated and accomplished young person who has made a significant impact in the arts and her community.

Through her involvement with Regional Futures for Theatre, Isabella pursued a mentorship to enhance her skills and was also selected for the prestigious Pulse Alive 2024 Dance Company, where she showcased her talent and commitment.

As part of the Pulse Alive regional tour to Moree in May 2024, Isabella mentored children at remote schools, sharing her passion for dance and inspiring children.

Her positive influence extends to her school, where she has been a member of the Student Representative Council at Parkes High School and was appointed to the senior leadership team for 2024 and 2025.

Isabella has participated in the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award program via PCYC NSW and volunteered at the PCYC NSW Nations of Origin tournament in Sydney.

"Isabella’s passion, leadership, and unwavering drive make her a deserving recipient of this award," her award nomination read.

Liesel Walters was overwhelmed to receive the 2025 Parkes Shire Lifetime Achievement Award.

For more than 30 years, she has been a tireless volunteer in the Parkes community, always putting others first and giving her time and energy to countless projects.

She has supported local businesses, celebrated the arts and worked to improve the lives of the elderly and farming families in our region.

"Everything Liesel does comes from the heart," her award nomination read.

"She genuinely loves the Parkes Shire and its people, and it shows in the way she steps up to help whenever there is a need.

"She is a role model for what it truly means to care for your community."

Liesel said the recognition was extremely humbling.

"I came to Parkes 30 years ago and fell in love with it," she said.

"The last 30 years have been the most privileged years of my life."

The Community Event of the Year was presented to Northparkes Mine's Cheers to 30 Years festival, held on October 5 in Cooke Park.

This free community event was designed to thank the Parkes and surrounding communities for their support of Northparkes over the years.

An estimated 8000 people attended, making it the largest stand-alone event ever held in Cooke Park.

It featured headline act Daryl Braithwaite with support from local band Foxxy Cleopatra and Indigenous artist Isaac Compton.

With more than 23 food vans and an inflatable world as well as special guest Bluey, there was something for everyone at this family friendly event over four hours.

The night ended with a fireworks display.

Ticket locations reflected that nearly 5000 tickets were taken from Parkes postcode residents, with a further 2500 tickets reserved by people out of town.

"The event has set a standard for the future with no incidents at all with such a large number of people and the alcohol ban lifted for the festival," its award nomination read.

"Overwhelming feedback from the community and those who attended was that this event had a special vibe - everyone wanted to just have a nice time listening to music with their friends and family."

Thrilled with their award Northparkes Mines turned to social media and said "we are proud to have created an event to say thank you to our communities for all of their support for the last 30 years".