FOUR locals have received the Medal of the Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours List on Monday, June 8. Dale Wright OAM, Ro Allen OAM, Donald Alchin OAM, and Aunty Merle Miller OAM were given Australia’s top honour for services to the community.
Dale Wright OAM has been a tireless campaigner for men’s mental health for more than 40 years. His Talk Straight program has helped countless men battling with their mental health to understand they are not doing it alone.
Ro Allen OAM, significant service to the community through social reform and human rights advocacy across LGBTIQ equality to First Nations justice, disability rights and protection for older Victorians, has had a massive impact across Victoria.
Donald Alchin OAM received the award for his service to swimming in Numurkah, the Goulburn Valley, and beyond. Help children become pool-safe and swim smart for decades.
Aunty Merle Miller OAM was awarded the medal for her services to the indigenous community. The proud Yorta Yorta woman was a teacher at Gowie Street Primary School. She has been part of the Aboriginal Justice Caucus and Forum, the Dhelk-Dja Caucus and Forum, Save the Children’s HIPPY Advisory Group and the Department of Education Respectful Relationships and First Nations Curriculum Truth Telling initiatives.
