ONE of the first volunteers at Melton's visitor information centre, Edith Feth has been selected as the shire's citizen of the year.
Mrs Feth, who settled in Melton after migrating from Europe 29 years ago, has become one of the shire's most recognised and admired citizens.
After 10 years of working with Mrs Feth, visitor information centre co-ordinator Kay Haugh was full of praise for the 80-year old resident.
"Edith is devoted to her community ... her attitude is that you are never too old to learn," Ms Haugh said.
Mrs Feth volunteers up to 20 hours a week, splitting time between the information centre and a planned activity group for aged and disabled residents.
Ms Haugh said she once overheard Mrs Feth saying she loved working with the "oldies".
"On one occasion I pointed out to her that she was older than many of the participants ... she simply shrugged her shoulders," Ms Haugh said.
Mrs Feth's commitment to volunteering began in 1996 after her husband died of cancer. She was keen to give back to the community that she said had helped the couple so greatly during his illness.
The youth citizen of the year award will be presented to Marayne Muller.
Marayne, who volunteers her time across several local youth initiatives, is on Melton's Youth Advisory Committee.
She contributes to youth magazine No Restrictions and recently become involved as a leader at the new GAP youth facility.
This year's community achievement awards will be presented at the shire's Australia Day celebrations at the Willows Historical Park from 10.40am.
Mayor Justin Mammarella said the awards recognised the invaluable contribution made by individuals and groups over the past 12 months.
"We gratefully acknowledge the efforts of those who put their community and fellow residents first and, in doing so, make a real contribution to our quality of life."