ANYONE who knows Wayne Lusty will know he’s not a man who seeks public admiration.
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Despite that, Wayne was crowned Tenterfield’s Citizen of the Year at last week’s Australia Day Ceremony and he’s still coming to terms with the honour.
A week on and Wayne says he’s been “very humbled” by the recognition and congratulations he’s received.
“I knew I had been nominated but I didn’t think I had much of a chance,” Mr Lusty said.
He said he’s just one in a big cog of volunteers that make Tenterfield tick.
“I’ve always helped since I was a kid. I think if you can’t give back to your community it’s pretty sad.”
Wayne’s not one to mince his words and admits his honesty may rub some the wrong way – but concedes it’s a little late to change.
“I think people of my vintage, in their seventies or so, I think we’ve had volunteering instilled in us. It’s the mindset both my father and mother instilled in me.
“People always say ‘volunteering is so hard’ – it’s half a day.
“This town has got its disadvantages – but it’s surviving. People need to get up and have a go, help out. That’s the Aussie spirit,” Wayne said.
While many would recognise Wayne from his annual Toy Run charity bike ride or his Lions or Rotary work, he’s led a diverse life.
Before returning to Tenterfield with his wife of 30-years, Rose, Wayne spent time in New York working for the World Health Organisation.
His work with the WHO led him to Africa on numerous occasions to help with water treatment.
Mr Lusty spent time in South Africa, at the time ravaged and torn by civil war.
He said it is experiences like those that have him thankful for his comfort in Tenterfield.
He may have picked up the town’s highly coveted citizen award, but Wayne won’t sit back and pat himself on the back.
“We’re working on getting an indigenous men’s shed going. I’ll still help out with Lions and Rotary, help with the school play and this year will be our 30th Toy Run,” he said.
“I’m sure there are other things between now and then I’ll sink my teeth into.
“I’ve got a lot to live up to – I don’t want to let any of the previous winners down either,” he said.