Now, Robert “Bobby” Griffin has a win of his very own, being named Queanbeyan’s Citizen of the Year for 2018.

The 82-year-old was recognised with the honour for his sporting contributions to the community over many years.

Speaking after his award win, he said he was thrilled and humbled by the award.

“It’s been a bit different, I was pretty nervous when I got up to make a speech,” he said.

“When I looked around, I could see people who might have been named Citizen of the Year before me, and I felt a bit guilty about it. But it’s an honour, don’t get me wrong.”

For 23 years, Mr Griffin was one of the support staff members for the Green Machine, doubling as the team bus driver and masseur.

While he retired from the position in 2006, the Queanbeyan resident still plays an active role in many of the city’s sporting teams.

Mr Griffin has been the masseur for the Queanbeyan Tigers, where he also played 151 games.

He said it was touching to be honoured with the award at Queanbeyan Park, the same place where many of his sporting memories were made.

“I played 150 first-grade games and 75 of them were on this oval,” he said.

“I played most of my games here and I walk here as well to keep fit. It's one of the best parks.”

Queanbeyan’s young citizen of the year was split between Callum Anderson and Cody Southwell.

The pair were recognised for their volunteer work with the Rural Fire Service, and their efforts during the Carwoola and Currandooley bush fires.

The event of the year award was given to the organisers of the Queanbeyan Park Run.

The event launched in April last year and now has grown to more than 750 active participants.

A special mayoral award was presented to Misty Stebbing, recognising her work in relocating more than 260 horses to safety during last year’s devastating bush fires at Carwoola.

Mr Griffin said following the awards he’ll be celebrating, but it will be for a different occasion.

“I had my birthday a few days ago, so my son is taking me out to dinner.”