The memo said to be at Waterman's Cafe by 11am for something 'important' but he was so busy making the jam he has become known for, he forgot the time.

"I was racing the clock, spilled a saucepan and nearly burnt myself badly but all I was worried about was not getting any on my shirt," he said.

He made it in time, clean shirt and was greeted by The Hon. Andrew Stoner, Member for Oxley who had nominated both him and Mrs Jeannette Rainbow for the prestigious award.

"These two have been real Trojans for Wauchope and the Hastings for so long," said Mr Stoner during the informal ceremony.

"They are stalwarts for the local community here and are always putting their hands up.

"I am honoured to present them both with the NSW Government Community Service Award."

Mr Adams and Mrs Rainbow were each presented with an engraved award and an official certificate bearing the NSW State Coat of Arms and NSW Premier Mike Baird's signature.

The NSW Government Community Service Award recognises individuals throughout the state who have substantially contributed to the improvement of the quality of life of members of their community, beyond that expected in their usual occupation.

Mr Stoner said although as the NSW State Member of Parliament, he was given the opportunity to nominate two individuals per year for the award, the guidelines were very strict and winning the award was rare.

"These awards are not a dime a dozen; I have only given out a handful in 16 years."

A surprised but delighted Mrs Rainbow was quick to acknowledge the work of others in the community.

"There are some wonderful people in this town and we do what we do because we love it," she said.

"In my view, we are just the custodians of the community while we are alive and we must do everything we possibly can to better our area for the next generation."

Mr Adams was equally generous in his praise for the local community.

"This is an amazing place; when you need help you only have to walk down the street and ask.

"Someone will always step up".

"We have so many wonderful volunteers locally," said Mr Stoner.

"I think out of all the towns in the Oxley electorate, Wauchope has more community minded people per capita than anywhere else."

Mrs Rainbow said her reasons for volunteering were simple.

"It is just so important to give.

"It keeps you with a contented heart and a healthy mind," she said.

"It makes you happy."