The award was presented at Sunday’s Australia Day celebrations in the Town Hall by Deputy Mayor Kellie Crossley.
It was accepted by his wife Shandra, and children Charlie and Lucy.
Cr Kellie Crossley, in announcing Bruce as the award recipient, said his life and dedication to the Deniliquin community was tragically cut short last year, however as demonstrated by the Citizen of the Year award, his legacy lives on as a testament to his decency, courage and tireless leadership.
“Over four decades, Bruce contributed to the region in ways that spanned grassroots efforts to national initiatives, always driven by a desire to uplift his community.
“From his work with the Conargo Hall Committee and Riverina Field Days to his advocacy for waterway management through the Yanko and Tributaries Trust, Bruce’s commitment to the betterment of Deniliquin and its surrounding areas knew no bounds.
“Bruce made substantial contributions to agriculture, helping farming businesses adapt to ongoing changes in irrigation systems and advocating for regional drought support,” Cr Crossley said.
The capacity crowd in the Town Hall was told Bruce Simpson’s time as director and twice as chair of Murray Irrigation Limited saw him lead the rollout of more than $200 million in essential modernisation projects.
“Beyond this, Bruce chaired the Murray Group of Concerned Citizens, passionately advocating for regional communities, and served on the panel for the Murray-Darling Basin Social and Economic Review, lending his voice to critical research and advocacy for basin communities,” Cr Crossley said.
She explained that recently, Bruce’s leadership extended to broader community development.
As a director of Intereach, he strengthened governance structures to support more than 40,000 people across Northern Victoria and Southern NSW. He also chaired the community committee championing the establishment of a Country University Centre for the region.
“And hopefully, we will get positive funding announcements for that centre this year,” Cr Crossley added.
She said across all his roles, Bruce exemplified respect, care and concern for others.
He understood that trust, transparency and collaboration were essential for effective governance and vibrant communities, and he never hesitated to stand up for those values.
“Bruce was more than a remarkable community leader; he was also a devoted husband, father, and friend to many. His warmth, humility and genuine interest in others left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
“Bruce embodied the qualities of a Citizen of the Year, showing us all the power of cheerfulness, respect and courage in building stronger, more connected communities,” Cr Crossley said.
The award given out at the Australia Day Ceremony was accepted by Bruce’s wife Shandra Simpson and his children Charlie and Lucy Simpson.
In accepting the award, Shandra said, “Bruce would be very humbled to be receiving this award today. As a family, we are very honoured to be receiving this on his behalf.
“As many know, he was a man who just did things because he wanted to make this town and region a better place.
“He was someone who did not look for acknowledgement but enjoyed seeing things advance and grow for the betterment of all.
“Bruce loved this community and loved Australia.”
Shandra congratulated the other nominees, Kaye McCabe, Luke Harrington and Pat Fogarty and “the person or people who nominated Bruce.”
“It’s an incredible honour to be recognised in this way.”
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