When Bassilios (Basil) Morcos is faced with a problem, he also foresees its solution.
Whether it be a lack of an appropriate educational institution for his community, hospitals in need of life-saving equipment or an overseas cataract crisis among the disadvantaged – a positive resolution isn’t far if Basil is on the case.
But the Keilor resident never set out to be a visionary, he simply wanted to do whatever it took: “If you can do something good and don’t do it, that is a sin”.
It’s a motto that has led to his name being carved on countless accolades, with the most recent honour no exception.
Owing to half a century worth of service and contributions to the community, Basil has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
He migrated with his family to Melbourne in 1971, and despite being on unfamiliar land Basil wasted no time in giving back to his new fraternity.
In 1973, he established the Australian Egyptian Association, which came to be known as a key organisation for migrants seeking support.
A year later, prodded by his urge “to do”, he became one of the founding members of the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria.
As the years rolled on so did Basil’s accomplishments, but one of those deeds surpasses the rest according to him.
“I tried to enrol my kids into a Catholic school when we moved here but they refused admission,” he said.
“After that I decided we needed a school for us and our community.”
Although Basil didn’t know it at the time, that thought would revolutionise the lives of thousands of kids.
St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College opened its doors in 1991, after more than a decade of grit and perseverance by Basil and his team.
“We started with 50 students, now we have 1000,” he said.
His dedication to continually improving the lives of those around him hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“I have received some awards, but I don’t worry about that, I do what needs to be done,” Basil said.
Even if Basil doesn’t give much attention to accolades and titles, the OAM has left him humbled.
“It’s a great honour,” Basil said.
“I feel very happy.”
While Basil is more of a quiet achiever, his son Albert has a lot to say about his father’s work and recent recognition.
“We as a family are unbelievably proud of the work he’s done and how he has always held the community above himself — service above self is what he believes in,” Albert said.
“One memory I have of him is whenever we went to church, we’d end up waiting for hours because there would be a line of people wanting to talk to him about their problems and dad wouldn’t leave without solving all of them.
“If he sees people in need, he contributes — he’s a great example for us to follow.”
Following in Basil’s footsteps might not be an easy walk, but the 87-year-old has some important advice for the younger generation.
“Don’t be a spectator in life, act instead,” he said.
“Feel the needs of the community and support them.
“I think if young people use their time carefully they can do miracles.”
