It's impressive enough when you hear of Frank Samuel's amazing 27-year commitment to the regeneration of the Third Settlement Reserve in Old Toongabbie, but when you find out that he is actually 97 - it is simply astounding.

This fantastic man was the Winner of the Diamond Award in the 2003 Regional Environment Awards sponsored by the Upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust and Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Holroyd and Parramatta Councils.

The ex-farmer has been replanting and regenerating bushland along Toongabbie Creek since he and his wife moved into their home in Old Toongabbie. He has removed weeds and replanted the reserve with native plants, turning a once weed chocked mess into a native habitat.

The retired farmer said, "I have been planting trees and clearing weeds for a very long time now. The reserve has come a long way over the past 27 years. I wasn't expecting to win $6,250 at last year's awards. The money has gone towards building a park bench and table, as well as purchasing some more plants, and removing of weeds within the reserve."

Stephen Lees, the Executive Officer of the Upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust, commented said, "Nominations for the 2004 Regional Environment Awards close on April 30. So many people in our community, like Mr Samuel, are working hard to help improve the local environment, often with very little recognition. The Trust and the Councils want to recognise those efforts and encourage everyone to keep up the good work. If you know of anyone who should be recognised, please nominate them."

Winners in the categories of individual, community group and school in each local government area will each receive $250 for a future environmental project. These winners among the councils will then be independently judged for a $1,000 prize in each category. The best overall nominee will collect the Diamond Award valued at $5,000.

To nominate yourself, or suggest a worthy person or organization, please call Mathew Ferguson at the Trust on 9891 4633 or visit the web site at www.uprct.nsw.gov.au for an entry form.

Applications close Friday 30 April 2004.