Octogenarian Ted Mortimer was surrounded by his children and grandchildren when named Dubbo's 2014 Senior Citizen of the Year on Thursday.
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The humble recipient of the NSW Seniors Week honour said his family's presence made the occasion "awesome".
Up to 500 of Dubbo's senior citizens applauded as Mr Mortimer shook Dubbo mayor Mathew Dickerson's hand and protested that others were more worthy of the title.
At the annual Seniors Expo in a Dubbo Showground pavilion, Mr Mortimer told of the enjoyment of wide-ranging community involvement, including driving buses for Lourdes Hospital, Bracken House, the PCYC and War Widows up until his 80th birthday.
The many organisations that Mr Mortimer has served as a volunteer or member include the Probus Club of Dubbo Macquarie, Dubbo RSL Youth Club and Dubbo Anglican Church.
He is well-known for his support of neighbours.
Mr Mortimer said his more than 20 years of community service to Dubbo probably stemmed from the death of wife Beryl in 1995.
"I was looking for something to do beside looking after my own garden and house," he said.
Dubbo's 2014 Senior Citizen of the Year is encouraging non-volunteers to "give it a go".
The well-supported Seniors Expo doubled as a 40th birthday party for its organiser, Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre.