The 65-year-old started his apprenticeship when he was 15 and said that retirement was not too far away.

"A lot of people think it's only the young fellas who can do anything when that's not the case," he said.

"It's a great farewell present, I guess."

The award recognises industry employees who make valuable contributions to the environment, economy and community.

Mr Wright was surprised and honoured to accept the accolade and said his workmates were equally deserving of the title.

"It is great to see carpenters recognised for their hard work and contribution to the community, as well as their contribution to fighting climate change," he said.

The awards are sponsored by the Naturally Better program with the intention of helping Australians better understand how they can prevent climate change by using wood.

Naturally Better spokesman Ric Sinclair said the program highlighted the value wood had in the environmental fight.

"Every time they build a timber-framed house, extend a timber deck or make a beautiful piece of furniture, carpenters are protecting our environment because wood stores carbon throughout its life," he said.

The awards were launched this year on National Carpenters Day on April 21, when the judges received more than 300 entries.

The judges were Mr Sinclair, TV personality Tom Williams, Timber Development Association chief executive Andrew Dunn and Trade Magazine representative Graham Joss.