Ernest earns OAM

Whittlesea council. (Joe Mastroianni). 246677_04

Ernest Noel Blake of Bundoora has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for his dedicated service to veterans and their families, as well as his significant contributions to the community.

Mr Blake has been a loyal member of the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia, particularly within the Victorian Branch.

From 2011 to 2023, he served as a delegate to the State Council.

Simultaneously, he held the position of President of the Northern Districts Sub-branch from 2011 to 2023 and has been an active committee member since 2005.

In addition to his service to veterans, Mr Blake has volunteered as a guide at the Repatriation Hospital in Heidelberg and the Olivia Newton Health and Wellbeing Centre at Austin Health for the past eight years, providing invaluable support to patients and staff alike.

His community involvement extends to the MacLeod Probus Club, where he has held several key roles, including president, vice-president, and membership officer, since joining in the early 2000s.

Mr Blake’s service record also includes his time as a member of the Australian Army during the 1950s, exemplifying his lifelong commitment to serving others.

Mr Blake’s OAM recognition is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the positive impact he has had on veterans, their families, and the broader community.