By Jed Lanyon
Dixons Creek resident Tom Steele has been given the Anzac of the Year Award for his extensive community work over the years including playing the bugle at countless Anzac services across the Yarra Ranges.
Mr Steele said, “I was shocked, I didn’t believe it.
“It means a great deal to me, I’m very humbled by it.”
Anzac of the Year Awards are made annually by the RSL to an individual or a group in each state/territory to recognise the efforts and achievements of up to seven Australians who have given service to their fellow Australians and to the community in a positive, selfless and compassionate manner.
Mr Steele served as a member of the Victorian Police Force for 38 years rising to the rank of Senior Sergeant, served in the Citizens Militia Force and volunteered with Dixons Creek CFA for 28 years.
He performed in the Police Band, was involved in local sports as a football umpire and cricket player and played the Last Post at war cemeteries across Europe.
“I know that a lot of people come to the services and listening to the Last Post is what they like to hear and it stirs the memory,” Mr Steele said.
“For me, I try to do the absolute best job I can do, not only for the people who come, but to honour the soldiers who didn’t come home.”
Local military historian and chair of the Seville War Memorial Committee Anthony McAleer said, “Every district needs a Tom Steele – a person who is always prepared to assist and volunteer in their community in any way they know will benefit it.
“Over the decades he has displayed an almost tireless effort in anything he has been involved in and has worked hard in numerous ways that has helped and positively affected so many individuals and groups, especially in the Shire of Yarra Ranges,” Mr McAleer said.
Mr Steele thanked Mr McAleer and Mount Evelyn RSL President Roger Boness for nominating him for the award.
