The man behind the Burrumbuttock Hay Runners who have been providing a helping hand to drought-stricken Queensland farmers for the past two years has been nominated for Australian of the Year.
Truckie Brendan Farrell has been nominated for the award won by Rosie Batty, Adam Goodes, Ita Buttrose and Geoffrey Rush in recent years by the organisation representing 18 councils in the southern Riverina region.
The Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils (RAMROC) has lodged the nomination ahead of the August deadline and Mr Farrell has to be a state winner before becoming eligible for the national honour announced on Australia Day next year.
“I'm a bit gobsmacked to be honest,” he said.
“I'm sure there are plenty of other people in Australia who deserve the award.
“I'm just a bloke with a truck at the end of the day.
“You are just trying to keep the farmers on the land and let them know someone still gives a s---.”
