History of the Vocational Service Award

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