Bland Shire Council's general manager Raymond Smith has been awarded the public service medal for his contribution to local government in the Australia Day honours list.
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Mr Smith, who began his career at Baulkham Hills Council, has been involved in local government for almost 50 years.
After his stint at Baulkham Hills, Mr Smith went on to work at the councils of Hornsby, Penrith, Waverley, Grafton, and Cobar.
In 2010, he began as general manager at Bland Shire Council and, according to his nomination, "has developed and led multidisciplinary teams to ensure a renewed focus on strategic planning and budgeting trends to secure the future stability of the council".
Mr Smith's achievements include the implementation of the Fit for the Future program; the attraction, retention and expansion of services and facilities for local hospitals, medical and drought relief; implementation of the tourism campaigns; and bringing in more than $1 million in operational savings.
During his career, Mr Smith has demonstrated a broader focus and sense of duty, taking on positions in the NSW Country Mayor's Association, the Further Inland Development Organisation, and the Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils board.
He has been described as "a conscientious and professional general manager, committed to excellence in local government, and an unwavering dedication to the community of NSW".
Mr Smith told The Daily Advertiser he was "surprised and humbled" by the Australia Day honour.
"I've had 49 years in local government and I've thoroughly enjoyed my time, being able to help people and support community events. Everything I've done certainly wasn't aimed at this type of recognition," he said.
"I've appreciated the support I've had over those 49 years from different staff members. The support of my mayors and the elected representatives has made it very rewarding."
