They are often people who shun the limelight and quietly get on with their good work.

They are not about "me" but about the welfare and progress of others.

Sixteen such local heroes were recognised in the Dubbo Day awards on Monday, which marked the 166th anniversary of the city being gazetted as a village.

They come from diverse backgrounds and between them have given innumerable hours of service to the community and impacted the lives of thousands.

Their work covers an amazing range of community activities, events, institutions, charities.

The list is endless.

Just looking at their tremendous workload and achievements is enough to make a person tired.

They have been performing important and even vital services to Dubbo's residents for up to 40 years.

The annual Tony McGrane Public Service Award went to Diane Pascoe, a Department of Education employee.

The award recognises people who go well beyond what is expected in their paid employment and make significant contributions to the community.

A pianist, Ms Pascoe's contribution to the arts and music is impressive and her work with young people has seen many achieve locally, nationally and internationally.

She, too, has positively contributed to the lives of others. Despite the recognition, the award winners all showed humility.

They, and other volunteers, are the real heart and soul of this city. We owe thanks to them all.