Narrogin’s senior citizen of the year award recognised Colin Ward’s 30-year community commitment and service

Narrogin’s top senior citizen has been recognised for his commitment to helping newcomers and ensuring the community is an enjoyable place through his volunteer work.

Colin Ward received the senior citizen of the year award recognising his three decades of dedication to the Narrogin community at the Shire of Narrogin’s Citizen of the Year Awards ceremony at Alby Park on January 26.

Mr Ward was unable to attend the event because of an overseas trip, and his stepdaughter Sheena Bloxham collected the award on his behalf.

Mr Ward has been involved in the Narrogin Revheads, the Quarter Midget Youth Project, and the Upper Great Southern Hockey Association, which illustrates his enduring commitment to the community’s development.

Shire of Narrogin president Leigh Ballard said Mr Ward’s “selfless support of vulnerable individuals and newcomers to the area exemplifies the highest standards of civic responsibility”.

Narrogin born and bred, Mr Ward said he accepted the award on behalf of all community volunteers.

“I appreciate the award but there’s a lot of people that do as much, so I’ll accept the award for everybody, all the good people,” he said.

Mr Ward said he did not volunteer for the accolades but was instead rewarded by helping community members.

“It’s humbling and surprising to get nominated because you don’t ever look at if for the awards,” he said.

“It’s not to be better than anyone else but to be part of the heap of people that do lots in town.

“My aim is to make Narrogin good for people, whether they stay for a day, a year, or a lifetime.

“I enjoy seeing people enjoy Narrogin and enjoy life.”

The lifelong volunteer said he focused on newcomers to town to ensure they were settling in and getting the best out of Narrogin, which had benefited his own community experience by making new and diverse friendships.

Mr Ward said it was important for everyone to “give a little bit” because it made the town a “stable and enjoyable place”.