About 50 North East and Border residents will join thousands of Australians in the nation’s 100-day leg of the Queen’s Baton Relay. 

Among the famous faces selected for the national relay were community identities like Rutherglen’s Greg Lumby who in his 48 years alive has devoted about “80 years service to the town”.

Mr Lumby has tallied up 25 years service at the Victorian Farmer’s Federation, 20 years service at the Noorong Country Fire Association and 20 years service for the Rutherglen Auskick and Netball Club, among other contributions.

Mr Lumby will be joined by 2017 Wodonga young citizen of the year Alannah McKeown.

A Special Olympian, Ms McKeown represented the nation at the Asia Pacific Games in 2014, before joining Team Australia for the Special Olympic World Games in 2015.

Having completed 2000 hours of service in two years, Beechworth’s Josie Cornish was recognised for her community contributions. 

Ms Cornish has transformed the Beechworth Lions Club from a group on the brink of closure, into a thriving team and last year raised $6000 for charity by shaving her head. 

She has received the Volunteer Manager’s Award from the Premier’s Office and the Malvin Jones Award, the highest Lions Award, for service in the community.

Ms Cornish is currently behind a push to see Beechworth plastic free.

Michael Carter is one of many baton-bearers chosen to walk through Wodonga, with the organisers praising his dedication.

Every Saturday night Mr Carter can be found serving food to Melbourne’s homeless.

Locally, Mr Carter also obtained a grant and set up the Eagles Community Farm outside Beechworth to help men with addictions take control of their lives. 

Wangaratta’s Dorothy Wise has been recognised for her 54 years volunteering at the Wangaratta Fire Brigade and auxiliary. 

Through her volunteering, including 27 years as president, Ms Wise fundraised for the Good Friday Appeal and continues to support the brigade with catering, suppers and fundraising.