Tamworth business and community leader Tim Coates has been recognised for more than 40 years of service to regional New South Wales.

Coates received a Service to the Region Award as part of Business NSW's bicentenary celebrations. He was among 10 people from across the state recognised at a gala held at Sydney Town Hall.

The recognition highlights his long involvement in the Tamworth business and regional community, as well as his contribution to the broader New South Wales business sector.

The award forms part of celebrations marking 200 years of Business NSW and recognises people who have made significant contributions to their regions.

Coates' recognition places a spotlight on the important role local business and community leaders play in regional centres such as Tamworth.

Tamworth is a major regional business centre for northern New South Wales, supporting a wide range of agricultural, commercial and professional industries.

Long-term community leadership can help strengthen connections between businesses, local organisations and residents, contributing to the development of regional communities.

The award also recognises the value of sustained service rather than a single achievement, highlighting the contribution people can make over many years.

Coates was recognised alongside other individuals from across NSW who have contributed to their local communities and regional economies.

The celebration provides an opportunity to acknowledge people whose work has helped support businesses and communities outside Sydney.

For Tamworth, the recognition is a local example of the wider contribution made by regional business leaders to the state's economy and community life.