Canterbury skipper Andrew Ryan has taken out the NRL's Ken Stephen Medal at the Sydney Town Hall on Monday night for his outstanding service in the community.

Renowned for his fantastic workrate on the field, Ryan doubled his efforts off it with his work for a number of charities, including Camp Quality and Beyond Blue.

Ryan joined the likes of Preston Campbell, Hazem El Masri, David Peachey and Nathan Hindmarsh when he accepted the award in front of a crowd of over 300, including volunteers and some of the NRL's elite.

NRL chief executive David Gallop said the awards night highlight some of the many good things done by rugby league in the community.

"Everyone here tonight has made an enormous contribution to helping others in the rugby league and wider community and this is our chance to formally acknowledge their efforts," Gallop said.

Ryan beat a strong field of worthy nominees including Penrith captain Petero Civoniceva, former winner Campbell, Newcastle playmaker Jarrod Mullen, injured Sea Eagles winger David Williams and Parramatta youngster Tim Mannah.

Ken Stephen Medal: Andrew Ryan

One Community NRL Club of the Year: North Queensland Cowboys

One Community Grassroots Club of the Year: Kellyville Bushrangers

National Volunteer of the Year: Greg Carey (Warwick Cowboys)

Service to the Community Award: Holroyd City Council and Integral Energy NSWRL Western Sydney Academy Inclusive Rugby League program

Service to Refereeing Award: Glenn Jeffcoat (Canterbury Bankstown Referees)

Women in League Award: Deanne Lees (Manly Sea Eagles)

Women In League Volunteer Award: Sue Fletcher (Springsure RLFC)

ARL Development National Teacher of the Year Award (Primary): Ken Hamill - Tully State Primary School

ARL Development National Teacher of the Year Award (Secondary): Robert Anderson, Bentley Park College

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