Cr Adrian Weston presented George Gemmill with his Citizen of the Year award at Stanhope’s Australia Day event.
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From preserving local history to decades of service with the fire brigade, George Gemmill’s commitment to Stanhope was recognised and celebrated on Australia Day as he was named the town’s Citizen of the Year.
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Attendees gathered at McEwen Place and enjoyed a barbecue while emcee Donald Campbell welcomed Campaspe Shire councillor Adrian Weston, who announced Mr Gemmill as a deserving recipient of the award.
A cornerstone of the Stanhope RSL, Mr Gemmill has served as secretary for many years while ensuring the stories of veterans from World War I and World War II are never forgotten.
Mr Gemmill was the driving force behind the Montevideo Maru mural, an artwork commemorating Australians lost in World War II.
His impact on the Stanhope community extends far beyond preserving history.
Having joined more than 60 years ago, he has given decades of service to the Stanhope Fire Brigade, making him its longest serving captain.
As a result, Mr Gemmill has received life membership, a 45-year service award and honorary life membership.
His generosity, as a founding member of the cause, is also reflected through the brigade’s four decade commitment to fundraising for the Royal Children’s Hospital.
Through his digital archive, Bill’s Horse Troughs, he has researched and shared stories, photographs and historical insights into about 300 heritage horse troughs across Victoria, NSW and South Australia.
Mr Gemmill's community involvement knows no bounds, from the football field to coaching swimming at the local pool, as a member of Tidy Towns, writing columns for the Stanhope About Town Newsletter and volunteering at the Stanhope Business Centre.
He was also acknowledged for his dedication at Campaspe Shire’s citizen awards on January 22, as he received a nomination certificate for the Citizen of the Year award.
(Back) Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell, Dean Gemmill, (front) Bev Gemmill, George Gemmill, Uncle Rick Ronan, Neil Gemmill and Stuart Gemmill.
Mr Gemmill’s contribution to the Stanhope community through his lifetime of service, dedication and commitment to preserving history and honouring veterans makes him a deserving recipient of the town’s Citizen of the Year award.
