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RECEIVING an Order of Australia Medal is a humbling experience according to Brian McWhirter.
The former Wingham High School teacher and tireless community worker was “blown away” when he answered a phone call from the Council for the Order of Australia, notifying him that a nomination on his behalf was being considered.
“I had no idea, I was very overwhelmed that someone saw fit to nominate me,” he says.
“It’s a hugely humbling and thrilling experience.”
Brian is one of three OAM recipients from the Manning, for his service to the community through a range of charitable and service groups.
His work began when he became scout leader of the Taree Scouts, before moving up to district leader soon after.
Brian is well known for his 35 years as a maths teacher at Wingham High School, a job he relished and he’s proud to have been able to teach so many great students.
But not content with just helping students, he was also a representative for the NSW Teachers Federation for many years and went on to become a councillor for the NSW Teachers Union.
He is also a life member of Wingham Teachers Association.
In 1991 he joined the Lions Club of Taree and threw himself into community work with them.
Over the years he has been chairman of their Christmas cake fundraising drive, secretary of the club, treasurer, director, vice president and president, before what he says was one of his greatest achievements, as District Governor for district 201N1 in 2004/2005.
Brian is extremely proud of the local Lions clubs and their continued work around the community.
Since joining the organisation he saw the work of the Lions’ owned ‘Save Sight and Public Health Care Foundation’, and has been an integral part in its continued support of those in need.
The Lions NSW-ACT Save Sight Foundation was established in 1974 and since then it has funded grants valued in excess of $4.5 million.
As its name implies, the foundation’s purpose is to save sight, and this is achieved through the funding of research into eye care and the causes, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases of the eye.
Brian is the director of the foundation and has held this position since 2000, something he is very proud of.
The foundation provides grants towards research projects; the purchase of equipment for universities, hospitals and institutions involved in eye health; equipment for the visually impaired; and the promotion of eye care in the wider community.
“It’s always been about helping people less fortunate than I am, and the foundation does a wonderful job,” he says.
Brian is a modest man and even with his latest acknowledgement he is still reluctant to spruik about himself and his many achievements.
“To be honest I feel almost embarrassed, not by the award but to have to talk about myself,” he says.
“There are so many people in this community who are worthy recipients of an OAM and for me to get it, while I’m very proud, it’s also difficult to put into words.”
Helping people, especially his local community has been a huge part of Brian’s life and is something that’s important to his family too.
“It’s not just about me, it’s about my family,” he says.
“It’s the least I could do to help other less fortunate than us.
“I’m honoured and humbled, and I’ll continue to do what I can.”