Knobel honoured with OAM

He said he was surprised and happy to be awarded the OAM.

“I just like to help out the community and, if I can, help to better it,” he said.

Mr Knobel has been volunteering in the State Emergency Service (SES) for over 55 years, along with the show society and numerous other community committees.

He said a man from England moved to Croppa Creek during a wet season and decided to start-up a local SES in 1955.

“I’ve experienced every flood in Moree. The 1976 flood was a big one; the rain came down from the upper catchment and the town was flooded. We had to help a few people out,” he said.

Mr Knobel said compared to the old flood boats they used to have, emergency equipment was much better now.

He has received local and national medals for his work with the SES.

Mr Knobel has also been made a life member of the show society for his continuous contributions to the annual event.

“I’ve held many different titles with the show society. I always try to do what I can for the community. The show is something everyone looks forward to each year,” he said.

 He said the move from the showground to the racecourse, was for the betterment of the show but also sad because of the many memories.

Mr Knobel said he was a part of the centenary committee, recruited by Moree Plains Shire Council mayor Katrina Humphries.

“I also helped build a school out at Milguy. There were enough local children to go to the school and we wanted to stop parents from having to send them away for education,” he said.

Mr Knobel is originally from Henty, and moved to Moree after his father bought farming land in 1950.

“Moree is a very friendly town and everyone is always nice. The country has been good to us,” he said.

Mr Knobel wanted to thank his family for their continued support throughout his years of volunteering.

“I am truely honoured to be getting this award. I don’t look for recognition because I enjoy helping where I can.”