Mayor Cr Colin McKenzie presented Una Allender with the Citizen award at the celebrations.

He said the award recognised Mrs Allender's outstanding commitment to the community over many years.

"(Una) is a dedicated person who is passionate and committed to improving the environment through many volunteer organisations and is known as a tireless worker for the community," Cr McKenzie said.

"She is actively involved in many sporting committees for Lake Bolac as well as volunteering in School Landcare and Business Development within Lake Bolac.

"With a strong involvement with the Eel Festival as secretary and treasurer she is the key person who makes the Eel Festival happen. Her involvement on these committees and her unselfish volunteering adds to the welfare and wellbeing of the local community."

Cr McKenzie congratulated Mrs Allender on being this year's Citizen of the Year.

Ararat's Alice Laidlaw was selected as this year's Young Citizen of the Year for her strong sense of community involvement and school and sporting achievements.

Ms Laidlaw has been involved within the local Football/Netball Club since primary school and is a member of the Ararat Swimming Club.

In announcing the award at Australia Day celebrations in Alexandra Gardens, Mayor Cr Colin McKenzie said Alice's involvement within the sporting area is mostly to promote healthy living among the youth within the community.

"Alice is also involved with Relay for life and participated in being a team leader in raising much needed funds for cancer research. She has a commitment to raising awareness of local and national health issues as well as a drive to make a difference within the community," Cr McKenzie said.

"Alice has been involved with the Student Representative Council at Ararat College and participated in School Leadership Programs as well as being the Senior House Captain for her team at school."

Cr McKenzie congratulated Ms Laidlaw on being the 2012 Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year.