Anne Shaw does not usually like being centre of attention on stage.

But behind the scenes she has been an integral part of leadership, education and community groups, which make a real difference.

This tireless work earned Ms Shaw the title of Wangaratta citizen of the year.

She said she was honoured to receive the award and was inspired by her parents, who were role models in community leadership.

“I learned from (my mum) that you don’t need to lead from the front to make a difference, you just get on and do the work,” Ms Shaw said.

The citizen of the year took her opportunity to encourage rural residents to stand up for their towns to influence decision makers.

“We all need to work together to make sure that Wangaratta continues to be a welcoming, respectful, inclusive place for all of us,” Ms Shaw said while on stage.

“I’d particularly like to see that Wangaratta be able to welcome refugees and asylum seekers if they choose to live here.

“We certainly have plenty to share.”

Council chair of administrators Ailsa Fox said Ms Shaw was able to work ethically and with respect of her peers across various sectors.

“A very genuine and inspiring member of our community, Anne is imaginative, enduring and encouraging,” he said.

“She's been part of, or is connected in some way, to a plethora of community groups in Wangaratta.

“For some she's a direct volunteer, others she's a quiet supporter and for many she's mentoring or acting as a discrete sounding board for their directors or leaders.”

Marcel Tonini was named as Wangaratta’s young citizen of the year as a “shining star” with broad community involvement at just 17 years old.

He was the youth council deputy mayor and played a key role with the trumpet at Anzac and Remembrance Day services during the 2015 centenary year.

The opening of Greta’s WWI memorial wall and honour board, featuring the names of 52 men who served in the war, was also named community event of the year.