General News
23 February, 2025
Murtoa's lifetime volunteer awarded OAM
Murtoa’s Gwen Blandthorn has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her decades of dedicated volunteer service in the community.
Mrs Blandthorn, who has spent a lifetime supporting local organisations and initiatives, said she was surprised when she received the official letter confirming the honour.
“I had a few forms sent to me saying I’d been nominated but I didn’t expect anything,” she said.
“Then, just before Australia Day I got the letter from Canberra saying I’d be receiving it.
“It was quite a surprise.”
Since moving to Murtoa in 1973 Mrs Blandthorn has devoted herself to various community projects.
Her volunteer journey began when a neighbour asked her to help cut sandwiches for a local event, and from that moment she immersed herself in community service.
She became involved with Murtoa Swimming Pool and has remained active in its operations for more than 50 years.
She has also volunteered at the local op shop since 1990 and has contributed significantly to Murtoa Agricultural and Pastoral Society.
Her dedication extends to numerous other organisations, including Murtoa Mechanics Hall, where she served as catering co-ordinator for 30 years, and the Australian Red Cross, for which she worked as blood bank secretary for five years.
She also held leadership roles in Girl Guides, the local fire brigade’s women’s committee and Murtoa Golf Club.
In addition to her committee work, Mrs Blandthorn has volunteered as a driver for Yarriambiack Shire, delivered meals on wheels, and supported the canteens at Murtoa primary and secondary schools.
She has also played a vital role in community fundraising efforts, organising street stalls, catering events and market stalls to support local projects.
Her contributions have not gone unnoticed.
In 1988 she was named Citizen of the Year by the Shire of Dunmunkle.
She has also received life memberships of the Red Cross, the Royal Institute for the Blind, the agricultural society and Girl Guides.
Mrs Blandthorn remains actively involved in the community, working at the local op shop in McDonald Street for two or three days a week to continue her support for local initiatives.
When asked about the importance of volunteering, she emphasised the need for more people to get involved.
“If we didn’t have volunteers, a lot of things would just close down,” she said.
“It’s a great way to make friends and help out the town.
"I started volunteering when my youngest was two, so I know it can be done.”
Looking back on her years of service, she highlighted the many catering events she helped organise, ranging from race days to community fundraisers, as some of her most memorable moments.
She expressed gratitude to those who had supported her along the way.
“You don’t do these things expecting a reward,” she said.
“You do it for the good of the town."
“I’ve had a lot of help over the years, and I’m very thankful for that.”