Groups received up to $5000 at its 12th annual grants night to buy essential items such as fridges, air-conditioners and shade sails, and for projects such as building restumping and conversion to drought- tolerant turfs.

Horsham Sports and Community Club manager Glenn Carroll said it was a successful night for many people.

He said everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

"It's a great night," he said.

Mr Carroll said a highlight of the night was the presentation of an `extraordinary sponsorship'.

The sports and community club granted CFA Region 17 $20,000 to go towards a new forward command vehicle.

Apsley CFA group officer Garry Smith accepted the grant on the night.

He said the money was extremely helpful.

The region has been trying to raise the money for almost four years.

"I couldn't believe it when I found out we were getting the money," he said.

"It's money that will last a few years."

Mr Smith said eventually the CFA would buy a forward command vehicle that could cover Apsley, Benayeo, Langkoop and Bringalbert South brigades.

He said it would be a four- wheel-drive dual cab, fitted with CFA and CFS radios so it could cross into South Australia for fires.

He thanked the sports and community club for the donation. "It's magnificent."

Horsham's Brian Murray was honoured on the night as Horsham Rural City Council 2009 Citizen of the Year.

Horsham Sports and Community Club chairman Tim Coller spoke of Mr Murray's generosity.

"This is for Brian's outstanding contribution to our region," he said.

Mr Murray said it was a great honour to receive the award.

"I was helped by lots of people to get that award," he said. "It feels very good."

Mr Murray said he saw the award as an achievement.

"It's an achievement because it feels like it's been a long time doing things here," he said.

Horsham Sports and Community Club also awarded Elaine Breuer life membership and announced Daniel Hounsell as staff member of the year.