IT was a double celebration for Bob Keating on Saturday evening.
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Not only did he co-win the Muswellbrook Shire Citizen on the Year award with his wife Diana, he did so a day before his birthday.
The local couple received the honour during a formal ceremony, on January 25, in the Atherstone Room of the Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music.
And, it was certainly fitting recognition for the Keatings.
The pair has played a major role in the support of the community for more than half a century.
Mr Keating joined Rotary in 1990 - and been an active member of the group for three decades.
During his time as a Rotarian, the organisation managed many fundraising programs to aid Meals on Wheels, schools, NSW Fire and Rescue, drought assistance and others too numerous to mention.
Mrs Keating, on the other hand, has been very active as president of the Muswellbrook Red Cross.
She's also the area coordinator for the Disaster Welfare Plan and Emergency Services team leader, as well as still being heavily involved in the Mobile Blood Service.
In 2019, she picked up a national Outstanding Service award.
"It's wonderful to share this [accolade] with my wife," Mr Keating said.
"We're both very humbled by it.
"But, of course, we're honoured to win.
"We love the Muswellbrook community.
"There are a lot of people in town who try to make it a better place.
"And, there are some [here today] who have helped with Di's and mine's growth.
"So, our thanks go to them, too.
"It's my birthday on Sunday (January 26) - it's a great present."
Mr Keating also congratulated fellow nominee David Roe, of Denman.
"He's a fantastic guy," he said.
"David has done a lot of wonderful work for his town, as well as Legacy.
"He's also worked tirelessly on the final stages of Merton Village."
On Sunday, January 26, council will stage a citizenship ceremony as well as presentations for Sportsperson of the Year, Junior Sportsperson of the Year, Services to Sport, Sustainability, Social Inclusion and the North Oak awards, at the Denman Memorial Hall from 9am.
Later, between 1pm and 4pm, the revelry will continue with a family fun day at the Denman Memorial Hall with barbecue lunch, entertainment and activities for the kids.
Both the Muswellbrook and Denman pools will be open with free entry from 1pm to 4pm, too.