Mallabula 19-year-old Sarah Forrest, and Bernie O'Brien, 79, from Raymond Terrace are the 2011 recipients.

Ms Forrest used her Youth Citizen of the Year acceptance speech to "spare a thought for those in need", to "rejoice" and to "celebrate" Australia's national day, while for Mr O'Brien, The Citizen of the Year, it was clear to see how much the award meant.

"I am overpowered with emotion to win citizen of the year," he said after his name was announced.

"To be considered for the award among such fine people is very humbling."

Father of six and grandfather of 13, Mr O'Brien is a man with close ties to a large family and he stressed the important roles they all played in helping him win.

"I would not be able to accept the award if it wasn't for my wife, Kath, my friends, and the community of this lovely area we live in," he said.

As the race secretary of the Raymond Terrace swimming club, organiser of neighbourhood watch, committee member of Raymond Terrace Seniors Club, mens shed and various cricket and football club's, he has been an integral part of the community.

Ms Forrest, in her speech, reflected on the year that was, good and bad, and what the award meant to her.

"This is the best award I could ever have imagined," she said.

"It has been a year of many changes," she said, giving a special thought to the homeless and those affected by the world's natural disasters.

She was recognised for her community work as the junior head of Hands on Youth, the polish program, Port Stephens Mission Australia Early Learning at Tilligerry and also Meals on Wheels.