Young-gun CFA and Scout member Martyn Currey and selfless all-rounder Denis Jackman were named Echuca and District's Young Citizen and Citizen of the Year respectively for their efforts around the twin towns.
Between their fundraising at CFA barbecues and helping out with Riding for the Disabled, both have given many hours to helping others.
“I just want to help as many people as I can,” Martyn said.
Humbled by the win, Denis said he didn't do it for the recognition.
“I'm just overwhelmed by the support and being nominated for this award, it's not what you do it for,” he said.
Campaspe Shire councillors Robert Amos and Tony Marwood congratulated the pair as they presented them with their awards.
Instead of holding the usual breakfast and award ceremony on January 26, a COVID-safe dinner was held in its place at Moama Bowling Club on Tuesday night, January 19.
Despite the change in venue and format, the event had all the elements that would have been included any other year.
The night began with a Welcome to Country video of Uncle Rick Ronnan, one of the many film segments played over the course of the event.
Echuca songstress Drew Walker then mesmerised the crowd with her first of many performances, the Australian national anthem, before the formalities began.
MC Cliff Downey entertained guests and made sure the event ran smoothly and on schedule.
Videos of the Echuca Aero Club, Echuca Scouts, Kyabram poet Mick Coventry and Echuca College singer Courtney Monaco were also played throughout the night — providing a sneak peak of the Rotary club's Australia Day video, which will be launched in coming days.
Echuca's local Australia Day ambassador Neil Thomas of the Great Aussie Beer Shed then made his Australia Day address.
The night concluded with a Rotary club raffle, which raised almost $1000.
You can view the Rotary club's Australia Day video online at or on the big screen at the Pop-Up Park at Echuca Port on January 26.emaustraliaday.com.au
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