Local volunteers, Tony and Beverly Simmonds, say the award couldn't go to anyone more deserving.

The couple signed up to help mend fences, and after spending months "mucking in" with other volunteers the dynamic duo were recently stood down from the program - as over-75s are more vulnerable to COVID-19.

They can't wait to get back on the tools as soon as they are able, however, and urge anyone who is able to sign up to help out.

"We've always been active volunteers," Mr Simmonds said.

"This was the best experience we've ever had. The work isn't too hard for the average person to do, and we enjoyed working with like-minded people. It runs like clockwork."

Mr Simmonds said he was "delighted" to hear the founders had been recognised.

He said some volunteers were former recipients of assistance.

"A couple who worked beside us, they'd lost a shed, equipment and two and a half kilometres of fencing," he said.

"They had been at home and depressed. After they got in touch with BlazeAid, within ten days volunteers had turned up and worked like Trojans. After that, they volunteered.

"He was in tears. Everyone was just lovely."

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Mr Simmonds said it wasn't just fellow Aussies who put their hands up to help out.

And the caring vibe between volunteers was playfully reflected in the nick-name given to their temporary flat-pack accommodation.

"There were backpackers, people from Japan, France, Germany, Brazil," he said.

"Everyone was enthusiastic about the work and got along well.

"In the end the backpackers nicknamed the flatpack housing we had to stay in 'love-shacks'.

"They were made of cardboard, but waterproof with power and could be put up in an hour.

"They were much better than tents!"

To donate or volunteer go to blazeaid.com.au