Audience members personally thanked the three-time Olympian after his lunchtime address and one patron showed their Australian nature by buying the man a beer.

The Warrumbungle Shire Council Australia Day ambassador said he loved travelling to the country for the national celebration.

“It’s a great way to escape the ratrace,” Mr Potent said.

“This is my 11th year as an Australia Day ambassador and I’ve always chose to come to country towns.”

In those 11 years wet Australia Days have been few and far between but the Mid-Western and Warrumbungle shires turned on a bleak day.

Mr Potent said the inclement weather was somewhat of a relief.

“On most occasions you are sitting or speaking in 45 degree heat and it can be tough,” he said.

“But everybody is inside today and still enjoying themselves and it’s great to see.”

His advice to Dunedoo residents on Australia Day was simple.

“What I love most about Australia and Australians is the motivational aspect. Each day everybody is willing to have a go and learn something new,” he said.

“The main thing is to enjoy it.”

The Sydney resident dominated rifle events between 2007-2010 after being named Australian Shooter of the Year three years in a row and has won multiple World Championship events during his career.

In March 2000 his career hit a high point when setting a new national record of 599 points. In 2009 he broke that record by shooting a perfect score of 600.

His specialty is the 50-metre prone event.

In 2007 Warren won the NSW state and Oceania titles, came fourth in the USA World Cup then won back to back World Cups in Sydney and Bangkok. He was also named as the Australian shooter of the year.

DUNEDOO AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS:

* Donna Lane – The Dunedoo Central School teacher was recognised for work with her Year 9 class at the local hostel.

* Melissa Farrow – Recognised for outstanding customer service.

* Cathy Gallagher – Recognised for outstanding community service.

* Ruth Large – Recognised for outstanding community service.

* Daniel Lane – Junior Sportsperson of the Year.

* Simon Ferguson – Senior Sportsperson of the Year.

* Jan Elith – Recognised for community service, in particular hostel and hospital visits with her Year 3 class.

* Dunedoo Coolah Landcare Group – Recognised for their ongoing environmental initiatives and carp muster.

* Neville Rose – Recognised posthumously for outstanding community service.