Mr Bortolin, a prominent Griffith resident, has been volunteering with various organisations for more than 25 years and last week he received the honour for his work with Life Education (Healthy Harold van).

As a volunteer with Life Education, Mr Bortolin drives the Healthy Harold van across the Riverina and ensures Healthy Harold remains a prominent part of education young people.

The Lake Wyangan man is also president of the Griffith Lions Club and said he can’t take all the credit because he wouldn't be able to do what he does without the help of others.

"It is an honour and it is fantastic to win this award but I can’t take all the credit because there are so many people that help me do what I do. I definitely couldn’t do it on my own," he said.

Despite Mr Bortolin’s humbleness about his contribution, Life Education said they rely on their volunteers and would not be able to provide the service without them.

"We wouldn't be able to move the mobile learning centre into the schools or around the community if it wasn't for Brian. He does so much more than just driving the van around," Life Education community engagement manager Paula Roden said.

"He has never let us down and he works with other clubs and services to extend the service beyond the school gate."

Mr Bortolin said he volunteers with Life Education because of the enjoyment Healthy Harold brings to children and the role it plays in their lives.

"Volunteering is just a thing that I do because I enjoy it, it is good to see the kids get a buzz of excitement when we pull up at the school, they come out running and waving," Mr Bortolin said.

"It’s like the old cliche, if you save one person then you have done your job properly, if you can save someone from going into drug and alcohol abuse then I think you have achieved something. It’s important we help out young kids because they are our future and we have to help them as much as we can. We owe our kids that, to help them as much as we can," he added.