She spends her time volunteering for Pink Angels, Red Cross, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Relay for Life, Cancer Council Western Region and she has also helped with the 2DU/Zoo FM’s Feed Our Farmers Program where she assisted with packing and sorting hundreds of boxes of donations as well as encouraging other organisations to donate.

Ms Hill was overwhelmed when she accepted the award.

“I came to Dubbo six years ago for love, thank you Bob, and I found an incredible community that has embraced me and allowed me to follow the things that mean the most to me,” she said.

“I am no longer the school principal, I am just Susie in Dubbo, and I am accepted for what I am.

“I am so proud to be Australian and so proud to be part of Dubbo.”

Ms Hill said she enjoys the social aspect of volunteering.

“I love it because I get to meet people and when I am around other volunteers it’s a great feeling because they are motivated and inspiring people,” she said.

“Volunteering makes retirement fantastic, it gives me a sense of purpose and to have it recognised is amazing.

“I am still a bit numb.”

Ms Hill has had health challenges but has chosen to help her community in many different ways particularly concerning cancer.

Dubbo mayor Ben Shields said Ms Hill’s dedication to others sets an excellent example for others to follow.

“She is very active with the Cancer Council in many forms,” Cr Shields said.

“She is on the organising committee for Orana Relay for life as the coordinator for survivors and carers. 

“Sue makes sure that the information wall is fully stocked and up to date at the Alan Coates Cancer Centre.

“Her biggest impact has been through her work as an Advocate and MP Liaison, and for two years she has actively campaigned with CanAct for the ‘I Care for Palliative Care’ campaign which has contributed to the successful campaigning for the government for greater palliative care funding.”

Cr Shields said Ms Hill also is a fount of knowledge in regards to our zoo.

“Sue loves volunteering for the Taronga Western Plains Zoo,” he said. “She is like a walking and talking billboard, advertising the zoo and the region whenever she can.

“Sue’s happy, positive and encouraging demeanour is contagious, and her contributions to so many groups make her an extremely worthy recipient of the 2019 Senior Citizen of the Year Award.”