RON Barassi is rallying the troops as he prepares to handball his hard-earned Melburnian of the Year title.

Visionary: 2006 Melburnian of the Year Ron Barassi looks to the future. Picture courtesy Herald Sun/Mark Smith

The footy great was honoured in the awards last
year for inspiring others and his overall contribution
to Melbourne.

He is now calling for people to recognise the city's unsung heroes by nominating them for the 2007 Melbourne Awards.

"Melbourne is the best city to live in, and it's time for the city and its citizens to acknowledge the inspirational people and organisations who are striving to make Melbourne a better place to live," Barassi said.

The awards, now in their fifth year, recognise the contributions made by people throughout Melbourne in the areas of community, environment and promoting the city's profile.

Another of last year's winners was Andrew Brown-May, a history lecturer at Melbourne University.

Dr Brown-May was honoured for his production of The Encyclopedia of Melbourne.

Mr Barassi believes the book provides a valuable educational service to Melbourne.

"I have never read anything like it," he said.

Award nominations close on May 18.

For more information on the awards visit www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/melbourneawards