Mr Blanch was recognised at the Australia Day ceremony in Forster for his active role within the Great Lakes community.

He is a member of the Student Representative Council who has acted in the school musical and excelled in the NSW Junior Regional Challenge and go-karting where he competed at state and national levels.

He was also recognised for his design and constructor skills with metal, wood, electronics and motors.

Receiving the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award and the Jack Ireland Award for consistency, honesty, integrity and ongoing outstanding commitment to the school and community were also among his achievements.

Chloe Hutchinson of Booral took out the Great Lakes Sportsperson of the year for her commitment and dedication to activities in rowing, primarily for Hunter Valley Grammar School.

The 16 year old has been selected into a training squad from which the NSW U21 Women's Youth 8 plus will be chosen to compete in the Kings Cup Interstate Regatta at the 2012 Australian Championships.

Mayor Jan McWilliams said that the winners, together with all the nominees, are great members of the community.

"We are fortunate in the Great Lakes to call them our own," she said.