Heartfelt applause greeted Tuesday’s announcement that dedicated Penola community volunteer Ken Mountford was the 2023 Wattle Range Council Senior of the Year.

His name was read out before a gathering of 90 at the Seniors Month finale at the Millicent War Memorial Civic and Arts Centre.

Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll detailed the extensive contribution to the community of the recipient dating back a number of decades.

Mr Mountford has devoted his time to a number of groups at Penola including the show society, St John Ambulance and the Lions Club.

He has been a backer of Penola’s arts and music festivals and overseen the regular hay baling project at the Coonawarra airstrip which is a money spinner for the Penola Lions Club.

A modest Mr Mountford accepted the award and acknowledged those who had supported him including his daughter and grandson.

As part of the Seniors Month finale, finger food was prepared and served by Newberry Park Primary School parents and students and live music was provided by the Stumpy Gully Bush Band.

First given out in 1991, the Senior of the Year recognises the worthy and older citizens of this community.

To be eligible, a person must be at least 60 years of age.

The award coincides each year with Seniors Month which is held around the state in October.

It is organised and sponsored locally by Wattle Range Council with over 20 events on the 2023 program.

Companies, groups and individuals had also lent their support and they were acknowledged by Mayor Noll.