Elizabeth was nominated for the honour by NSW Rural Fire Service Cadet Coordinator Sam Tout, with the endorsement of Andrew Dillon, District Manager South West Slopes.

Miss Butt said she was surprised to get the award because she knew a lot of people were in the running.

"This is a big honour for me because I knew the quality of the other people nominated for the award," she said.

"I love volunteering for the RFS and I love the interaction with people and knowing that I am helping the community and people in their time of need. I want to pursue a career in Para-Medicine and I am studying at CSU Bathurst.”

Lizzie’s Mum Mandy said that the RFS is a wonderful avenue for every young person to reach their potential.

"I think the program is fantastic and I recommend it for all young people," she said.

Cadet Coordinator Sam Tout said Lizzie deserved her award.

"Elizabeth has attended all Sunday cadet training sessions from 2012 to 2015, participated in the four-year cadet program and become the Officer in charge, leading her team to come second at Nationals," he said.

"She also demonstrated emotional intelligence and excellent skills in the areas of communication, team building and first response triage.

"I am a big believer in if you do the work you deserve the accolades, she has been a very good role model and makes the entire team feel valued.

"She is also a part of a consultative group to encourage women into leadership roles in the RFS."

Member for Cootamundra Katrina Hodgkinson congratulated Miss Butt on her achievement.

"Elizabeth's voluntary contribution to the RFS over a number of years is exceptional we are very proud of her commitment and dedication to community service," she said.

"As we've seen across the headlines only recently, our emergency services personnel do a fantastic job and it is terrific to see young people getting involved.”