As a regular attendee to the ceremonies at Maitland Park he was humbled to be considered for the award.

“It’s wonderful to think these people have recognised what I have done,” he said.

Mr Murray is a life member of the Maitland Pipes and Drums, is a patron of the East Maitland Girl Guides and spends time visiting schools with his collection of Aboriginal and convict artefacts.

“Over 1000 students handled the objects this year across three schools,” he said.

Mr Murray was one of eight siblings who grew up on the Hunter River and credits his attitude to those early days.

“I’m extremely proud of my mother who got me through school,” he said.

“Growing up at Hexham we just got in and helped each other [and] that has just carried through all my life.”

The Aboriginal elder of a Clarence Valley tribe has lived in Maitland for 25 years and served on Maitland council in 1988. 

He stepped down part way into this term when three of his brothers died of cancer in one year.

“That’s why I got so involved with the Maitland Cancer Appeal,” he said.

Australia Day celebrations start 7.30am on January 26 at Maitland Park and the festivities include free entry to Maitland pool.