``It was so unexpected. It's not something that you consciously strive for,'' he said. ``The award is a tangible recognition for what you do.''

Mr Taggart, who is the managing director of The Taggart Group at Norwest and a part-time lecturer and tutor at the University of Western Sydney, was recognised for his service to The Hills through charitable and sporting organisations.

His list of achievements is endless chairman for fund-raising for Our Lady of the Rosary Kellyville and Our Lady of Mercy, North Parramatta, chairman of the advisory board for the Western Sydney Red Shield Appeal and Salvation Army, co-patron of the Polecats Football Club, director of the Parramatta Rugby Union Club, roles with the Hills Football Club and chairman of the fund-raising committee for Western Sydney, Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and there's plenty more.

``Where I am in life is because of other people and my theory is to help other people and hope they go on to help others, too,'' Mr Taggart said.

``To have the ability to help people you don't know impresses me. Life's all about helping and giving.''