The award, introduced in 2003, acknowledges the outstanding contribution a parent has made to public education.

Unbeknown to him, Mr Hutchinson was nominated by Red Range Public School in June.

He was successful at regional level and from applicants state-wide was last week, notified by regional director Des Gorman of his award, through Red Range School principal Robyn Parnell.

“I was working in the playground and didn’t have my glasses. Robyn told me to sign (his nomination form) I thought it had something to do with education week I didn’t know I was being nominated for the award,” Mr Hutchinson said. “I’m actually stunned.”

A surveyor with Glen Innes consultants and horse trainer, who with wife Tracey run a riding clinic Basics and Beyond, Mr Hutchinson has been actively involved with the school for more than 10 years serving on the parents and citizens committee and for the past five years, as president.

Through this body Mr Hutchinson has been involved in a number of initiatives. Most recently the successful application for the Investing in our schools program saw the public school obtain covered walkways, covered play area, a storage shed, new sports equipment and new assemble area seating, with Mr Hutchinson himself chasing builder quotes and lending a hand with construction.

Last year’s variety bash catering saw the students make dozens of lasagnes and Mr Hutchinson race around the village knocking on doors to use resident’s ovens.

Funds raised by the P&C from the Variety Bash were used to support student literacy and purchase outdoor furniture.

“The biggest thing with the P&C is that they work with the school. If the community and staff work together the school will be unstoppable,” Mr Hutchinson said.

In the classroom, Mr Hutchinson volunteers one day a week to aid the schools six staff members and 39 students with reading programs, creative and practical art activities. He is also a participant in the Glen Innes community of schools committee.