The 93.5 FM 3BO radio host, who is far more used to surprising others on-air, had the inaugural award sprung on him by special guest Charlie Bovalino, the rotary club's past president.

Mr Bovalino presented Cogho with a blank $500 cheque for a charity of his choice, a small trophy and a larger perpetual trophy, which will hang on the wall in the Kangaroo Flat Rotary Club. 

"It's not just what you do for Kangaroo Flat, but it's for all the things you do in the community - the fires the floods, every fundraiser - who do they ask for? Bryan Coghlan," he said.

"I couldn't think of anyone more worthy."

Mr Bovalino helped organise the stunt with the help of 3BO's news reporter, Erin Ryan.

"Yesterday I got a message from the boss, Jason Priestly, saying don't tell Cogho," she told listeners.

"People don't realise how much he's done."

Cogho said he was surprised at the award and grateful for the cheque, which he said would go towards Give Me 5 For Kids. 

"You got me," he said.

"I'm not good at accepting things, because I prefer to be the other person doing it.

"But it is a great honour and I certainly appreciate seeing my name up there - my family will be rapt. 

"I'm surprised. That is fantastic, I really appreciate that."

After the segment, Mr Bovalino said the inaugural award had been in the pipeline for about six months, but he had only got the radio station on board earlier this week.

"I was looking to do something for Cogho because of what he's done," he said.

"He's very community minded, it's all about helping people in and around Bendigo and central Victoria.

"He had no idea (about the award), that was the best part. We kept it from him and it was real surprise and a well-deserved award."