In recognition of his countless hours with Junee’s law enforcers, Mr Fanning was awarded the Police Officer of the Year volunteer award.

He beat two other nominees in the category, one from the Central Coast’s Tuggerah Lakes and the other from King’s Cross in Sydney – two suburbs with much larger populations and larger crime rates.

Mr Fanning began volunteering with the police on April 1 this year.

“Everyday since that day I’m filled with [pride] to put on my VIP uniform and head to Junee Police Station to help out my police colleagues, my mates,” Mr Fanning said in his acceptance speech.

Mr Fanning dedicated his award to his mother, Barbara, who passed away from emphysema four years ago.

“Mum, I love you and I miss you. I wish you were here tonight. This is for you,” he told the crowd.

Back at the station after the weekend’s event, Mr Fanning spoke of how his mother’s death became a catalyst in his decision to join the police volunteer program.

“She would have been happy for me,” he said.

Aside from the award, the night provided Mr Fanning with another exceptional honour. That is, his favourite dessert: vanilla cheesecake, served to end the event’s three-course meal.