Penny is well known throughout Australia and fondly recognised for her many roles in some of Australia's most popular television programs, including E-Street, GP and The Flying Doctors.

One of her most famous roles was as Vicki the vet in the much-loved A Country Practice.

In the corporate arena, Penny is a much sought-after speaker, presenter and master of ceremonies for award evenings, formal functions, seminars and conferences.

Penny has been a panelist on Good News Week, a guest presenter at The Logies on several occasions, Good Morning Australia, Sunrise, Tonight Live, and she is also spokeswoman for several prominent Australian charities.

Penny's appearance will be a highlight of Coolamon Shire's Australia Day program, which will be hosted next Tuesday by Ardlethan Community Progress Association.

The program includes:

10am: Entertainment by Ardlethan school students, Barb Wright and Leather And Lace.

10.30am: Official ceremony, including the presentation of the Australia Day awards by mayor Robert Menzies and Penny Cook.

1pm: Lunch and entertainment.

The Coolamon Shire Citizenship Awards - recognising the hard work and dedication of local people who typify the Aussie spirit - are an integral part of these celebrations.

Four special awards are the Shane Till Award for sporting achievement, the Junior Sporting Achievement Award, the Young Citizen of the Year and the Citizen of the Year.