Molly Smale, 264 coordinator, won the State president's award - the highest award out of 12 awards and 367 applicants.

Members Annette and Alec Farrell also won the award for meritorious service to the residents of Whyalla and the community of South Australia.

Mrs Smale has been with Neighbourhood Watch since 2000, and had been co-ordinator since 2002.

She said it was wonderful to receive the award, but she wished the award was for everyone in 264.

"I'm only there because I've got enormous support from everybody, it wasn't just me," Mrs Smale said.

Mrs Smale's award read: "In recognition of her exemplary and conspicuous service to the community of Whyalla and to Watch SA and Neighbouhood Watch in South Australia".

During Molly's time, 264 and the council have upgraded the McGee Street Family Park including installments to eliminate crime in the area.

Mrs Smale said the group used to pick up used needles around the park and there was regular theft - occurrences that no longer happen.

Mr and Mrs Farrell helped police make about five arrests in the area this year.

Mrs Smale said they were a good pair - one would be on the phone to police reporting a crime, while the other would be navigating where the offender was going.

"They should have recognition for it," Mrs Smale said.

But Mrs and Mr Farrell said it was the whole Neighbourhood Watch 264, especially Mrs Smale.

"Without Molly we wouldn't be Neighbourhood Watch 264," Mrs Farrell said.

Since the park upgrade, 264 has held yearly fetes, raising money for different organisations.

This year the group tried to raise money for the Safety Assist Programme and the Norrie Stuart Kindergarten.

Mrs Smale said the group also received enormous support from Whyalla Police Chief Inspector Alby Quinn and Housing SA regional manager Irene Adair.

She also thanked Tim Butt and his workshop, and customer service office, depot office Jane Richard.