THREE men have been instrumental in the shaping of the South Burnett for decades and on Sunday night Nanango's Reg McCallum, Wondai's Percy Iszlaub and Murgon's Bill Roberts were honoured for their lifetime contributions.

Mayor Wayne Kratzmann presented the special award at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony to the local icons.

"We acknowledge three of the greatest Australians who we are lucky enough to say belong to the South Burnett," he said.

"(They are) three great Queenslanders, three great South Burnett civic leaders, who in total have given 108 years as either a mayor or councillor of their relevant councils, which has never been heard of anywhere else in Queensland."

Cr Kratzmann described Mr Roberts as an icon who has made Murgon what it is today and was looked up to by people from across Queensland.

He said Mr Iszlaub was an outstanding citizen and his work to bridge the divide with indigenous people in the region was not known widely but it meant a great deal to those it impacted.

The mayor said Mr McCallum has always been known as the mayor of Nanango and always would be.

"He continues to do great work with the (Brisbane Valley) rail trail, he continues to do anything that supports his fellow man," he said.

"Reg for everything you have done to make the South Burnett a better place, we salute you."

Mr McCallum said receiving the special award was overwhelming.

"This is certainly one of the greatest, most enjoyable and amazing, unexpected moments of my life," he said. "To be here with two of my old time colleagues and great friends... overall thankyou ever so much for all the kindness."

Former Wondai mayor Mr Iszlaub said his efforts were for the sake of the community.

"It was all about communication, it's all about progress and it's a wonderful privilege to receive this honour," he said.