Barrie Brooks was named citizen of the year, at the awards ceremony, which celebrate the diligent work of each individual and community group that contributes towards Moree Plains' vision of a diverse, friendly and strong community.

Mr Brooks clocked up 50 years of volunteer service with Moree Lions Club late last year.

He first joined the club in October 1970 after a couple of mates invited him along to a meeting one day.

Mr Brooks has been president of Moree Lions Club on four separate occasions, served seven years as secretary, was on the District cabinet for a number of years and served as zone chairman. He was also convention chairman in 2005 and 2015 when Moree hosted the zone convention.

"I had a lot of good help - a lot of people have helped me along the way," he told the Moree Champion in November.

Mr Brooks said like most volunteer organisations, the biggest change he's seen over the years is the reduction in volunteer numbers.

"Back when I first joined we had 40 plus members in our club," he said.

The awards were presented by Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor Katrina Humphries who noted how special it is to receive an Australia Day award.

"Each category winner was so deserving of their awards today; it is a heart-warming moment acknowledging Australia Day award winners and their contribution towards their category", said Mayor Humphries.

Other 2021 Moree Plains Australia Day Awards went to Volunteer of the Year Darryl Brady, Volunteer Group of the Year Mungindi Rural Fire Service, and Sportsperson of the Year Rhys Devney.

A special congratulation goes to Kathleen Walker and Lyn James for being nominated for an award today.

The Australia Day event was held at Jellicoe Park this morning, bringing together the Moree Plains Shire community who also welcomed a new Australian Citizen and enjoyed a free BBQ breakfast prepared by the Moree Lions Club.