MOUNTAIN biking superstar Elise Empey won the Sportsperson of the Year award at last week's presentation night at the Mansfield Golf Club.

The festivities were attended by over 100 people, the fervour in the crowd palpable as the evening's proceedings got underway.

Following an introduction from Rotary's Maurie Walsh, who's spearheaded the organisation of the event for many years now, nominees from 2022 were presented by the mellifluous and entertaining MC Craig Willis.

A great spread of sports were on display in addition to the perpetual football, netball and cricket, whose standout stars still secured worthy nominations.

Local favourites tennis and golf were represented by Sarah Fox and Rod Sargent respectively, while netballers Leonie Berry and Erin Brond received nominations alongside Eagles footballer Sam Thomson.

Swimming and basketball's youngest stars were on display with the multi–talented Seb Walker and hoop hero Ella Mercieca receiving nominations.

Sports less seen were also showcased, with Nikki Theodossi being recognised for her return to the hockey field, and local bull rider Will Purcell nominated for his rodeo talents.

Molly Lines received her second nomination in as many years for her equestrian accomplishments, showing her promising future in the sport.

And she was unlucky not to win, pipped at the post by fellow year 12 graduate and mountain biking superstar, Elise Empey.

"I'm surprised," said Ms Empey as she received the award from Mansfield Golf Club President, David Octigan.

"Surprised, but very happy."

Her table of supporters didn't appear to be surprised though, as a raucous round of applause erupted following the announcement of her win.

Elise's winning of the George Walker Memorial Shield punctuates a stellar 2022, where she won back–to–back junior titles on the national stage and represented Australia at the World Championships in France.

Delatite Cricket Club President and crowd favourite Peter Scales finally and deservedly took home the Sports Club Person of the Year award.

"Good to see you again," said MC Craig Willis with a smile, nodding to Scales' past nominations.

"We certainly don't go looking for these awards, it's certainly a team effort at the club," said Scales.

"But it's nice to be recognised."

Ella Mercieca won Junior Sportsperson of the Year following an incredible 2022 on the basketball court, where she played for the Northeast Bushrangers grand final winning side, received a best on court accolade, and made state selection in an extremely competitive sport.

"So, why basketball?" asked Craig Willis from a decent height but still half a head shorter than the thirteen year old winner, who accepted her award with a smile.

Seb Walker won the Encouragement Award for his outstanding year across a number of sporting disciplines.

"You might have to choose one over the other in the future," Willis said to the young winner.

"But well done on an exceptional year and make sure you thank Mum and Dad for all the driving."

And the Mansfield Golf Club's Scratch Pennant Team took out Team of the Year for their historic victory which broke a 50 year drought for the club.

It's unlikely they suffered a drought of their own on the night, however, as the beers flowed freely following their win on home soil.

Paul Cougle, who sealed the deal for the team with an immaculate chip and putt on the last hole of their final last year, spoke on the team's behalf and thanked the club and all who helped them in achieving the win.

The evening concluded with a raffle and the immutable Rotarian Maurie Walsh rounded out proceedings with a thank you to all of the sponsors, nominees and winners.