The Tamworth electorate’s Local Woman of the Year for 2023 has been crowned, with Gunnedah’s Marie Hobson taking home the prestigious award.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson was on hand in Gunnedah yesterday to present Mrs Hobson with the award and thank her for her decades of community service.

“Marie Hobson has spent a lifetime telling stories from the Gunnedah Shire as a journalist, highlighting the rich history and proud community in which she was born,” Mr Anderson said.

“A charitable and unselfish person, Marie has always worked hard for her community behind the scenes, far away from the limelight and the accolades.

“With Gunnedah so close to her heart, Marie has always worked hard to give others in her community an opportunity to thrive.

“Her long association with the Gunnedah Swimming Club has given countless local boys and girls the precious skill of knowing how to swim.

“Her time as President and Secretary of the Gunnedah Historical Society has refocused our community’s interest in our own history.

“Her membership of the local VIEW club has seen Marie drawn to the advancement of women in the Gunnedah community.

“There is no doubt that Marie has had a significant impact on her community, helping the town progress in her own way.

“Regional and Rural areas rely on women like Marie to ensure the region’s success and I sincerely thank her for giving Gunnedah a hand.

“Marie’s dedication to Gunnedah embodies the spirit of the Local Woman of the Year and I can think of no more deserving recipient of the award for 2023.”