Gary Cracknell has been recognised for his 25-year volunteer commitment and dedication to the Bundarra Showground.
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First appointed to the Bundarra Showground Land Manager (BSLM) board of six in 1996, Mr Cracknell has been elected chair for three consecutive years on three separate terms.
Now, the local stalwart has been nominated in the 2020 NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards for a Department of Planning, Industry and Environment Individual Excellence in Crown Land Management Award.
The award recognises individual volunteers involved in the management of Crown land that exemplify outstanding community service ethos, dedication and commitment to their community.
Mr Cracknell has always been passionate about completing improvements to the showground.
He was the main overseer of a construction and upgrade of a multi-purpose building, his nominee described.
"A loan of $20,000 was obtained and an additional $25,000 was sourced from a government grant as well as a contribution of $15,000 from the Land Manager and $20,000 from other users.
"This project has been by far the most important addition to the showground. The old building was approximately 80 years old and was in disrepair and presented work health safety issues.
"The old building was restored and a kitchen was erected on the end of the existing building which has enabled the building to remain authentic yet functional," she wrote.
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Mr Cracknell was involved in obtaining quotes, presenting figures to the board and was the backbone from start to completion. He was also instrumental in getting a lighting and power upgrade for the showground.
"This was necessary to meet the increasing demands being placed on the ground by community organisations that were wishing to hold night competitions and following this upgrade Bundarra was successful in applying for and running State Campdraft Championships."
Other projects Mr Cracknell has organised include a new stable block and dressage arena, something he put many hours into helping build, leveling ground, carting gravel, maintenance and handyman jobs.
"No other person in the district has the knowledge that Gary has to solve problems should they arise, if he can't solve then he is quickly on the phone to get somebody who can attend to it in order for the smooth running of events.
"To sum up this individual is the complete go to for any information or fix up job on the Bundarra Showground. Gary's passion for the community often put the needs of the showground before his personal needs and family," his nominee said.
The list of Mr Cracknell's volunteering achievements are long and highlight his effort to serve the land manager and community.
Judging for the 2020 NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards will begin on September 23 with an awards presentation taking place on November 20.
