At the Macintyre Lions breakfast in Victoria Park, Mr Kearsey was recognised, along with teenager Imogen McDonald who received the award for Young Citizen of the Year.

Mr Kearsey arrived in Australia in 1960 as a 14-year-old from the UK.

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Just a boy, he had already been dreaming of life in Australia for two years after watching a documentary called Australian Diary while working in a picture theatre.

Twelve-years-old and living in an orphanage, he tried to apply immediately, but was told he was too young.

Two years later, he was finally allowed, migrating with the Big Brother Movement, which helped him find work and a place to stay. He described the move as "life changing".

"Not only did I find a new country, but I found a new family, because I was adopted by the Kearseys. I look back and I think it was the best move I ever made," he told the Times in 2016.

Over the years he has been a dedicated member to many local organisations, incluing Legacy, the RSL, the Northaven board, Inverell and District Collectors Club, the National Service Association, Inverell RSM Indoor Bowling Club, the Kurrajong Re-enactment Committee, and of course, Inverell Lions.

Our young citizen of the year, Imogen McDonald, has been someone who has given youth a voice, through the NSW Youth Parliament and the Student Representative Council.

Renowned for her cooperation with others when public speaking or performing ballet and music, Imogen's integrity, caring nature and belief in a positive future for all has been frequently demonstrated through her community involvement and fundraising efforts.

Teachers also say she is an excellent role model for other students and displays a deep understanding of democracy.

Last year she was one of only two students in New England to be recognised, and one of only 35 students across the state to receive a Minister's Award for Excellence in Student Achievement.

There was no award presented for community event of the year, due to most events being cancelled in 2020 during the pandemic.