In recognition of his work, he is one of seven finalists in The Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) of WA’s Rural Community Achiever award.

The award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to society by supporting and developing their local communities.

Nominated by the Wagin Agricultural Society (WAS), Mr Edward’s work with the Woolorama has helped put the town on the map.

Mr Edward moved to Wagin in 1968 to join his father-in-law in the running of Belmont Park Stud. He became involved in the WAS and soon realised the annual October show, with only locals attending, had no future.

Along with other forward thinkers he proposed it become an autumn event in March, when there would be less competition from other agricultural shows.

Woolorama was born and 38 years later it is recognised as an outstanding success, with local businesses benefiting from the 20,000 visitors it attracts annually.

Over the years it has provided a forum for wool innovation technology and sheep productivity ideas to be presented to farmers.

Agricultural business generated is put at about $3 million per year.

More than $30,000 is distributed every year to service organisations in the town who have contributed to the staging of the event.

As well as gaining sponsorship for Woolorama events, Mr Edward has pursued the eradication of footrot and lice.

He has also found time for 42 years of active Lions Club membership and 30 years of volunteer fire brigade leadership.

“It just seems like the right thing to do,” the 69-year-old said.

The WAS said perhaps Malcolm’s greatest contribution was his ability to persist with an idea until he saw it through to its fulfilment.

“He has the ability to see beyond the obvious and the courage to step out to achieve ground breaking developments which have pond rippling effects for most rural enterprises,” the WAS said.

The Rural Community Achiever receives $2000 cash and an additional $2000 is donated to a community project of his or her choice.

Mr Edward would put the funds back into promoting Woolorama and upgrading facilities.

The winner of the Rural Community Achiever award will be announced in Perth at the Royal Show’s Claremont Showgrounds on Sunday, September 26.

The Smoke Free Perth Royal Show is on from September 25-October 2.