Well known Penola resident Kathy Fennell has been recognised for her contribution to her community.

Ms Fennell has been named the Wattle Range Council Riddoch Ward Citizen of the Year.

Raised in Penola, Ms Fennell has devoted her numerous years to many community groups and organisations.

She said she was absolutely “gobsmacked” and “overwhelmed” when Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll told her the exciting news.

“I feel quite honoured, because there are a lot of other people in Penola that would deserve this award as well, so I’m very honoured to be chosen as the recipient,” she said.

“And over the years I have had excellent support from my family and friends, because they like being involved in things as well.”

Ms Fennell is a Foundation Committee Member of the Penola Little Athletics, has been Secretary of the Penola Show for 25 years, a Penola Coonawarra Acoustic Music Gathering Committee Member and volunteered at the CFS.

She has been heavily involved with the Penola Football Club, including three club reunions and the 150th year reunion book, the Juniors Football Club and the Ladies’ Committee.

Ms Fennell also worked at the Penola Pennant for 32 years.

“I really, really loved my job there, it was just so good,” she said.

“I really enjoyed it.”

Ms Fennell and her husband Des have lived in Penola their whole lives, making them about as local as you can get.

She said she joins groups and organisations because it is what she loves to do.

“Penola is a lovely little community, I really enjoy being involved in the organisations that are around and I enjoy helping people,” Ms Fennell said.

“I just enjoy participating in everything I do.”

The award will be presented to Ms Fennell at the Australia Day Breakfast in Penola Park, January 26.