LEETON'S Bob Parsons was a humble recipient of this year's lifelong citizen to the shire award.
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A relatively new award as part of the shire's Australia Day awards ceremony, the honour is aimed at recognising members of the community who have given countless years, sometimes even decades, of service to the town in which they live.
Mr Parsons was described on the day as being one of Leeton shire's most respected accountants.
Now retired, Mr Parsons has helped many over the years in not just his professional capacity, but also his involvement with organisations such as Rotary and the St Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Leeton.
For many years he has also audited the books for several committees, groups and charities from the shire for no charge, which has enabled them in return to give back to the community.
Mr Parsons has been an active member of the Rotary Club of Leeton for more than 50 years, known for being among the first to always put their hand up to volunteer for whatever project is on the boil.
Also described as a "quiet achiever who works tirelessly for the benefit of the community", Mr Parsons was surprised to receive the award on Tuesday.
He joked with the crowd he was "still an outsider" of Leeton having not lived in town for his whole life.
"I've only been here for 62 years," he laughed.
"But admittedly, I have done quite a bit I suppose for the town and the community in general.
"In the main, I've kept a low profile.
"There would be a lot of people who probably haven't heard about me until today except perhaps as a practicing accountant.
"Thanks to everybody. This is a great honour."
Last year's winner of the award was mayor Paul Maytom.
Nominees in the lifelong citizen to the shire category have displayed a consistent effort of service to the community over a longstanding period, which is certainly something Mr Parsons has achieved in vast amounts.
Other nominees in the category this year were Dr Barrie Sangster, George Weston, Una Williams, John Collins, Garry Lanham and the late "Buster" Ryan.
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