Mr Hansen, who is president of the Inland Waterways Rejuvenation Association, won the Australian Habitat Hero title, presented at the Gold Coast Convention Centre on Saturday night.

A panel of judges from the Australian Fishing Tackle Association  judged the nominees, with entries coming from all states and territories, Mr Hansen said.

“I was also lucky enough to be asked to give a 10-minute presentation at the Australian National Recreational fishing conference, and presented on the projects and achievements that we have undertaken in the Dubbo and central western NSW region,” he said.

Other presenters included Paul Worsteling from television’s iFish series, heads of NSW Fisheries departments, and Senator Richard Colbeck, Mr Hansen reported.

The award winner said in his acceptance speech he wanted to thank the volunteer IWRA committee who gave up their time to improve local waterways and all the local businesses that supported the IWRA through sponsorship.

The IWRA also organises the annual Lake Burrendong Classic.