A Lifeline Newcastle and Hunter initiative, the Brass Blokes Award aims to highlight men who have been through adversity yet still find the time, courage and inspiration to give back to their community.

The award is the male equivalent of Lifeline's annual Steel Magnolia Award for women.

Dora Creek nominee Bill Carr has been an active member of the community for more than 30 years and, despite his battle with cancer, continues to help others through the South Lake Community Services and Morisset Lions Club.

In April, 2012, Mr Carr was diagnosed with bowel cancer and underwent surgery before undergoing six months of chemotherapy.

He still attended all of the Lions club meetings he was physically able to get to, and even held meetings at his house to ensure his continued involvement.

Mr Carr and his wife, Debbie, also took care of their 15-year-old granddaughter while her father battled bowel cancer.

Shortly after completing chemotherapy treatment for bowel cancer Mr Carr was diagnosed with stage four melanoma, but continues to show good humour and great strength.

"I've got a snowball's chance in hell of winning [the award]," Mr Carr laughed.

Toronto resident Howard Marshall is another local nominee who embodies the values of the Brass Blokes Award.

Mr Marshall has been described as a quiet achiever with a history of giving back to the community.

He has worked extensively with Toronto Apex Club, which presented him with a life member award.

Mr Marshall has also been a member of Toronto Lions Club for about 40 years, serving in various positions including club president.

About 12 months ago Mr Marshall had been unwell for some time and required open heart surgery and a new heart valve.

Despite still recovering from his surgery, he jumped in to help temporarily when the club secretary needed time out to care for his wife.

The winner of the award will be announced at a dinner on Friday, July 18, at Souths Merewether.

Brendan Willis, Anna Bay

Peter West, Thornton

Fergus Campbell, Lambton Heights

Jade Mann, Fletcher

Bill Carr, Dora Creek

Graham House, Windale

Simon Burt, Belmont

Toby Cable, Redhead

Edward Cross, Newcastle

Howard Marshall, Toronto

Graeme Irwin, Merewether

Angus McConnel, Merewether