Lyn Swinburne, breast cancer crusader and the creator of the pink field of women events, has been named Melburnian of the Year for 2007.

Cancer crusader: 2007 Melburnian of the Year Lyn Swinburne. Picture courtesy Herald Sun/Andrew Tauber

Ms Swinburne, 55, is chief executive of the Breast Cancer Survivor Network, which is now synonymous with its pink woman motif.

Ms Swinburne, who beat breast cancer after being diagnosed 15 years ago, said just being alive was an award in itself.

"I'm just thrilled to be here every day," she said yesterday.

Lord Mayor John So will formally present Ms Swinburne with her award at the annual Melbourne Awards dinner tomorrow.