John Hahn doesn't usually get lost for words.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
However, when MidCoast Council mayor, David West announced John was the inaugural 2020 MidCoast Citizen of the Year, he was speechless.
"I am blown away; I am not talking about the wind, but by getting such an award," a flabbergasted John said.
"This award will make a good day even better."
After moving from Wollongong back in 1979 to the Great Lakes the retired secondary school teacher quickly immersed himself into the Forster Tuncurry community.
He transferred his Lions club membership to Forster Tuncurry and joined the Cape Hawke Surf Life Saving Club.
John was a member of the Bonny Hills SLSC during his youth while receiving his education in Wauchope.
Sand, saltwater, exercise and meeting people were his main reasons for volunteering.
"I enjoy teaching kids how to swim and stay safe in the water," he said.
Helping others could be John's middle name.
I enjoy teaching kids how to swim and stay safe in the water.
- John Hahn
He also was a member of the one-time Neighbour Aid, supporting older members of the community maybe fixing leaking taps, helping with vehicle maintenance or cleaning windows.
"I like to do things to help people wherever I can," the former industrial arts teacher said.
He also volunteers and helps maintain the Lions Club operated trampolines in Forster and the Cape Hawke SLSC building.
John is a life member of the surf club and also is a recipient of the highest Lions award, the Melvin Jones Fellowship.
After serving in Vietnam, John returned home and was posted to the Riverina town of Lockhart where he met fellow school teacher and wife, Gwenda.
John taught at Forster High School until his retirement in 2005.
He said both Gwenda and his three children and two grandchildren also were very excited with the acknowledgement.
When he heard about the nomination in this year's award, John was a little skeptical.
"I thought someone was having a joke, and then I got the letter from council saying I had been nominated.
"But, I didn't expect this.
"I am just one of the numbers."
He saluted and congratulated his fellow nominees.
John is an exceptional person, with a long history of serving his country and helping his community, Cr West said.
"I'm honoured to present him with this award and grateful to him for the work he continues to do to better the Mid Coast.
"He has given time, support, assistance and care to others throughout his life."
John and Gwenda celebrated the award with a few drinks at the surf club and a meal at Forster Tuncurry Golf Club.
Stay ahead with local news by signing up for the Great Lakes Advocate newsletter here.