Fraser Bunting, of Balclutha, will receive his double gold star this weekend to recognise 50 years’ dedication to the volunteer fire brigade.
The man who joined the brigade to do something for the public, has now served under four chief fire officers.
Balclutha people were "excellent" and he thoroughly enjoyed his time with the brigade, Mr Bunting said this week.
It was "quite a thrill" to receive a double gold star.
However, Mr Bunting will still be "answering the siren" and attending callouts right up until his retirement next week.
His favourite thing to do was man the pump at the back of the fire appliances.
"I just do anything that is required."
Mr Bunting is also involved in an antiques society that collects vintage machinery and former fire appliances.
He appreciated the support he and the brigade had received over the years.
Balclutha chief fire officer Graeme Ferguson, who is also a police officer, said he had known Mr Bunting for at least 40 years and he was one of those people who "flies under the radar".
Mr Bunting was just about "irreplaceable" because he was willing to do anything, Mr Ferguson said.
"He’s just willing to help . . . you couldn’t put it into words.
"He just has so much knowledge. He’s a mechanical genius."
Mr Bunting had passed significant knowledge on not only to the Balclutha brigade, but also others throughout the district.
Mr Bunting will receive the double star at a special ceremony at the Balclutha War Memorial Hall tonight.
