The firefighter joined a rural brigade when he was just a teenager, and 64 years later he still loves what he does. That passion was recognised recently when he was announced as one of the winners of the 2020 Volunteering Tasmania Awards.

Taking out the Lifeline Tasmania Emergency Services Volunteer Award, the Prospect-based volunteer was described by those who nominated him as a "caring, understanding, and empathetic person who constantly looks out for his fellow firefighters, and is always the first person to reach out to those in need".

"James has proven you can make a career as a volunteer ... James is one of the very few, true gentlemen that I know, he is a great inspiration to all members of the Prospect Fire Brigade," the nomination read.

Throughout his career, Mr Smith held many positions, from firefighter to volunteer training officer, to chief officer, and brigade chief.

But it has never been about the titles for Mr Smith, who has stuck with volunteering all these years because "the fire service is like one big family".

And despite getting older, his enthusiasm for fighting fires has not changed.

"As a 15-year-old you would see a fire truck go down the street, and the adrenaline would be going ... well the adrenaline is still there," Mr Smith said.

"Working in smaller communities has been so rewarding, I have some wonderful memories, and have worked with some absolutely fabulous people, it really has been a privilege.

"It is hard yards, but I have always had terrific support, not just from the other firefighters, but my family.

"You could never survive being a volunteer without the support of your own family, it is disruptive, you can't plan things. So the support from my family has been one of the most important things."

While he admitted the physical toll of the job would eventually become too much for him, he was still confident he could keep up with the younger volunteers, and even teach them a thing or two.

"Out on the fire ground it is still very hands on, and the young ones keep their eyes open, they are there to learn," he said.

"We have had boys come through the brigade, and I have seen them go on and turn into career firefighters, I am very proud to think I could have played a part in that."

His contribution to his community has not been limited to the fire service though.

Mr Smith spent 23 years of his working career in local government, including stints as a Circular Head councillor, deputy warden, warden, and mayor. The 2020 volunteer award was not his first honour either.

In 1986 he was awarded the Australian National Medal, then the Australian National Medal 3^rd clasp in 2000, and the Australian National Medal 4^th clasp in 2017.

He was also awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in 1993, and then later the Order of Australia Medal in 1998.

He was recognised for his 50 years with Tasmania Fire Service in 2009, followed by a certificate and medal for 60 years of service in 2018.

Now, the 78-year-old has retired from full-time work, but continues to not only volunteer with Tasmania Fire Service, but also as a driver with Community Transport Services Tasmania, providing transport to doctors appointments and specialists across the state.