The announcement was made at the 2BS Bathurst Region Citizen Awards for 2015 held in the Wattle Foyer of the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre last night. The function was attended by 100 people.

Kelso High School student Cassandra Talbot was named the Jack Aubin Young Citizen of the Year. Her mother Samantha collected the award on her behalf. 

Bathurst Broadcasters general manager Phil Cole said there was a wonderful list of Citizen of the Year finalists, and Mr Morgan was a worthy recipient.

Mr Morgan said the award was “an extraordinary surprise”.

“What an incredible honour it is,” he said.

He said when he looked around he saw a room populated by living treasures. 

“It was a great honour to hear the names of all the others nominated for this award and be counted among them,” Mr Morgan said.

“The 2015 bicentenary is a time to celebrate all that we’ve achieved and an opportunity to reflect on what more can be done.

“Bathurst is very special and the depth of commitment of people to this community is so strong.

“If this award means I am able to do more to help Bathurst, then that’s a real pleasure.” 

Mr Morgan has acted as the master of ceremonies for Bathurst’s Proclamation Day celebrations for the past 15 years.

He served as president of Bathurst Historical Society for seven years from 2001 and as curator for 14 years. 

Mr Morgan has written and published several history books, including The History of Bathurst 1815 to 1915.

He also ran the Young Achievers Award at the Royal Bathurst Show for 10 years and was a show council member.

Mr Cole said the award recipient is chosen by a panel of past Citizens of the Year.

“It was a very clear-cut decision,” he said.

“Christopher Morgan is already a great ambassador for our city.

“He will do a fantastic job of representing Bathurst over the coming 12 months as the city celebrates what is a very significant year.”

The other nominees for Bathurst Citizen of the Year were Betty Ives, Bill Ryan, Bob Cassidy, Bruce Hickey, David Mills, Fiona Thompson, Ian North, Jannefer Toohey, John Trollor, Paula Elbourne, Rob Barlow, Shirley Walsh and Stephanie Brown.