And on Wednesday, Andrew Downes was not only recognised for his efforts recently but for his dedication to the Rural Fire Brigade for the past 12 years.

The Gerringong's Rural Fire Service captain was "surprised by very happy and honoured" to be recognised with the accolade.

The captain of two years was awarded for his devotion to duty within a volunteer-based organisation.

Read more: Illawarra firefighters brace for increased fire danger

Mr Downes and his brigade have been fighting the South Coast and Wollondilly fires for the past couple of months.

"As a brigade we have been on the fire front doing property protection and backburning, and as a strike team leader I have been in a command position," Mr Downes said.

"The ongoing fires are out of the ordinary."

Mr Downes said the recent rain had helped calm the fires but the brigade was still attending to other incidents including car accidents and structure fires.

"I have spent a lot of time in the brigade," he said. "I love it. I am not sure what made me join. I have always been interested in the RFS."

Young Citizen of the Year, Olivia Deans, was recognised for her achievements in karate over more than a decade.

Taking up the sport when eight years old, now 20, she has amassed an impressive list of accomplishments, including representing NSW, and a collection of gold medals at the national and international level.

Olivia is currently organising workshops and activities for NDIS participants whilst studying for her teaching degree.

The Community Group of the Year has been shared by the Kiama Red Cross and Jamberoo Touch Association.

The Kiama Branch of the Australian Red Cross has been supporting the community for more than 100 years.

As well as their iconic Red Cross Calling and Red Cross Fun Run fundraisers, they organise street stalls, raffles and barbecues.

This helps them provide emergency services, refugee integration, Learner Driver, Breakfast Club and the Young Parent's programs.The Jamberoo Touch Association started in 1984 as a social competition and has grown to 900 senior and junior players.

The Association manages a 51-side summer competition, 32-side winter competition and more than 100 juniors.

The awards will be presented to recipients at the Australia Day ceremony at Minnamurra Public School on Sunday.