Judy Jakins and Andrew McKay turned up at the event not knowing that they would each be presented with a NSW Government Community Service Award by the Premier.

Enthusiastic applause was provided by about 130 invited guests at the function at Dubbo's Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Base. The awards and their recipients were seen as a perfect match, given the volunteer efforts of Mrs Jakin and Mr McKay.

"This award recognises people throughout NSW who have substantially contributed to the improvement of the quality of life of members of their community, beyond that expected in their usual occupation," Dubbo MP Troy Grant reported before the tea was poured.

"Judy and Andrew have given tirelessly to their communities, both are deserving recipients."

Mrs Jakins, a former chairwoman of the Dubbo Support Group of the RFDS, has served the organisation for the past 25 years, including a nine-year stint on the South Eastern Board.

She also co-founded the Isolated Children's Parents' Association of NSW in 1971 and served a four-year term on Dubbo City Council in the 1990s after making political history.

In being elected a Member of the NSW Legislative Council in 1984, the long-time Dubbo resident became the first female National Party representative in the NSW Parliament.

Mrs Jakins' contribution to the RFDS has previously prompted Mr Grant to speak of her in Parliament.

"In my humble opinion the road that leads to the base should be named Jakins Drive in recognition of the contribution Judy Jakins has made," he said.

"The Royal Flying Doctor Service counts on volunteers such as Judy Jakins to minimise administration costs and to ensure that more of its fundraising dollar goes directly towards providing health care for those who live in regional areas."

Mr McKay has made his mark on Dubbo through innovation, leadership and drive.

He is well-known for running the Zoo2Zoo bike ride from Sydney to Dubbo each year since 2006, to raise funds and awareness of the Black Dog Institute.

Mr McKay has also played a key role in organising the 61 Weekend which celebrates former Australian cricketer Glenn McGrath's highest test score to raise funds and awareness of the McGrath Foundation.

Currently he is the treasurer of Dubbo's DREAM Festival, aimed at promoting art and culture in the community.

At yesterday's afternoon tea, Mrs Jakins and Mr McKay received an engraved award as well as an official certificate bearing the NSW Coat of Arms and the Premier's signature.

Mr O'Farrell took part in the award ceremony after turning the first sod at the stage one and two redevelopment of Dubbo Base Hospital.

kim.bartley@ruralpress.com