Brian Kelly has received the Medal of the Order of Australia for his outstanding service to the community of Tocumwal in NSW.
Queensland Governor Dr Jeannette Young presented the award to Brian, 95, in a special ceremony at Regis Kuluin, on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
Not only did Brian serve as a volunteer firefighter for 42 years, but he also played a significant role in promoting tourism in Tocumwal through his 40 years with the Chamber of Commerce.
Brian's efforts to create free campsites along the Murray River and advertise the town as the best destination for fishing, boating, and great local food, helped put Tocumwal on the map.
Brian started working at the local pub owned by his parents at the age of 18.
He worked there for 62 years alongside his wife Lillian, who he married during this time.
Brian has only recently become a resident at Regis Kuluin, but he had visited his wife Lillian every day since she settled into the Home.
"I am even more in love with Lillian today after 74 years of marriage," Brian said.
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