History of the Vocational Service Award

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History of the Award

The Rotary Melbourne Vocational Service Award was born out of a 1963 proposal by committee chairman Harry Simpson. Inspired by similar awards in Sydney and Adelaide, Simpson suggested honoring individuals, not necessarily Rotarians, who exemplify service to the community through their professions. The club embraced this idea, aiming to recognize meaningful vocational contributions without regard to fame or other community achievements.

In 1964, Rotary Melbourne presented its first Vocational Service Award to O.J. Nilsen, a pioneering figure in both broadcasting and civic life. As Chairman of O.J. Nilsen Australia Pty Ltd, Nilsen played a crucial role in the early days of Victorian radio, securing the state’s first commercial broadcasting licence and becoming known as the “father of radio in Victoria.” His work transformed radio into a vital public resource, bringing entertainment and news into homes across Melbourne.

Nilsen’s commitment to community went beyond broadcasting. For 30 years, he served on the Melbourne City Council and held office as Lord Mayor from 1951 to 1952. His contributions, both on the air and in public service, left a lasting impact on Melbourne, embodying Rotary’s ideal of using one's profession to serve society.

In 1979, Major Dawn Vale of the Salvation Army was our first female recipient of the Vocational Service Award, embodying the very essence of selfless service. As matron of The Salvation Army East Camberwell Children’s Home, Major Vale provided not only care but also a sense of belonging and joy to the children who arrived at the home in difficult circumstances. Her kindness and guidance transformed the lives of countless young people, helping them feel valued and supported during a vulnerable time. Major Vale’s compassion extended beyond her official duties, as she took children on family holidays, encouraged their interests, and taught them life lessons in integrity and happiness. Her influence left a lasting legacy of hope, dignity, and optimism, representing the Rotary ideal of “Service Above Self” in every way.

Over the years, awardees have been celebrated at special luncheon ceremonies often attended by the Governor of Victoria.

Past Recipients​

1964

Rtn. Oliver J. Neilson

1965

Mr Malcolm S Moore

1966

Sir William C D Upjohn

1967

Sir Alexander Fitzgerald

1968

Rtn. The Very Rev. A. C. Watson

1969

Sir Samuel Wadham

1970

Dr Phillip Law

1971

Mr Frank Fitzpatrick

1972

Rtn. Dr John Glyn White

1973

Dr Ronald Downes

1974

Rtn. Dr J E K Galbraith

1975

Dr Lisbeth Brodribb

1976

Mr Henry Powell

1977

Sir Charles McGrath

1978

Rtn Sir John Reid

1979

Major Dawn Vale (Salvation Army)

1980

Dr John Maloney

1981

Prof Lawrence McCredie

1982

Mr Hector Crawford

1983

Rtn Rev Arthur Preston

1984

Mr S I Miller

1985

Rtn Geo. D Thompson

1986

Prof Graeme Clark

1987

Sir John Holland

1988

Sir James Gobbo

1989

Sir Arvi Parbo

1990

Mr Richard Divall

1991

Mr Bernard O'Brien

1992

Mr John Ralph

1993

Rtn Dr George Tippett

1994

Prof David Pennington

1995

Prof Derek Tribe

1996

Rtn Dr Margaret Leggatt

1997

Ms Maudie Palmer

1998

Dr John Olver

1999

Dr Gordon Donaldson

2000

Mr Bruce Parker

2001

Mr John Landy

2002

Ms Lyndsey Cattermole

2003

Ms Susan Barton

2004

Prof Peter Doherty

2005

Dr Frances McNab

2006

Prof Alan Trounson

2007

Mr Trevor Green

2008

Prof Jeffrey Rosenfeld

2009

Prof Glyn Davis

2010

Dr Neville White

2011

Mr Bryan Lipmann AM

2012

Ms Stephanie Alexander OAM

2013

Dr Mukesh C Haikerwal AO

2014

Ms Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO

2015

Mr Nigel Dick AM

2015-16

Mr Gareth T A Andrews

2016-17

Dr Catherine Crock AM

2017-18

Dr Bronwyn King

2018-19

Mr Edward Tudor

2019-20

Dr Joe Tucci

2020-21

Prof Sharon Lewin AO

2021-22

Prof John McNeil AO

2022-23

Mr Robert Pradolin

2023-24

Dr Sandro Demaio

2024-25

Ms Simone Carson AM

To make a nomination for the award, click here:

Vocational Award Nominations


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