My expectation [on January 26] was an opportunity to talk rugby union with Gordon Bray.

I have vivid memories of listening to his intimate knowledge of Crookwell during his commentary of the women’s hockey games and his visit to our girls at this very location. His words of wisdom then, as well as today, have been enjoyed by all.

When nominations were declared for today’s race, there was a field of eight. In the betting ring, I was an 8-to-1 outsider, with Margaret [Carr] the favourite, thanks to her lasting transformation of the Crookwell treescape.

However, when we reached the finishing post, fame, fortune, ability and beauty appear to have given way to respect for old age. Weights have been declared and I have the trophy as Citizen of the Year. Thank you, umpire, lines persons, ball persons, replays.

Thanks must also be given to all those nominated for their outstanding contributions and commitment to our shire. Also, congratulations to the winners in the other two categories.

I have heard people say that Crookwell is The Friendly Town, but this is only half true. I don’t like half truths.

Let me explain. When Moses led the children of Israel out into the wilderness, looking for the promised land, a land flowing with milk and honey, he stopped after 40 years. Mistake. He never reached Crookwell. Crookwell is the land of opportunity; opportunity to help others and be helped by others.

It took me and my travelling companion 54 years to reach the land of opportunity. The children of my tribe were lost along the way. After 16 houses and eight towns, we are now here to stay (over 30 years, so far). For those with loved ones up on the hill, you know what I mean when I say I’m here to stay.

Let me give you some examples of events and organisations that have seized the opportunity: the Harley Beds, where the community purchased the beds so that we now have Viewhaven; the Bushfire Appeal, where the Crookwell Country Weekend Committee raised $33,000 in one night to help those in desperate need; the lights on the oval, where Rotary and the community raised over $70,000 to turn them on.

You all have examples of such individuals and organisations – the list is long – but to me, the best is our opportunity to live without fear: fear of random shootings, home invasion, car jacking, racial discrimination. I can walk the street alone at night.

This award recognises member of organisations who have taken the opportunity to share and care for our community. I have been fortunate to be a member of some of these organisations.

The years have rolled by. I am now obsessed with the Men’s Shed: an opportunity to assist in the welfare of our senior men. We have a say: You are helping us when we have the opportunity to work for you. Thank you, Men’s Shed, for looking after me.

Words cannot express the gratitude within my heart: for my wife, Beryl, my loving partner over 60 years; and for you, all my friends. Please keep the dream alive: Crookwell, one of the friendly towns of the Upper Lachlan Shire, within the land of opportunity where we care for each other. Thank you, Crookwell.