Murray Lewis might have been recognised as the Melton citizen of the year, but to him the award is a team award.
Mr Lewis was announced as the citizen of the year last week, for his work as an active member of the RSL for more than 40 years.
Mr Lewis is the co-founder of the Caroline Springs RSL Sub-branch and his decades of service have helped hundreds of veterans and their families receive both support and recognition for their sacrifice.
He is also a pensions advocate for Veterans at Melton Vietnam Veterans Centre, initiated proceedings for the first memorial at Caroline Springs, is caretaker of the memorial walk in Aintree, and a key support person for the Burnside Village War Widows Group.
Mr Lewis said there isn’t much better honour to receive.
“It’s very humbling,” he said.
“I feel and I’ve said it a few times, it’s a team award, not the Murray Lewis award.
“It’s something I enjoy and you don’t set out for these things.
“My wife [June] is part of this award and it’s for her too and I wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t for her.”
Mr Lewis paid tribute to the members of the Caroline Springs RSL, especially president Peter Burquest who is a driving force in the branch’s work.
He said the Melton RSL, Mirvac, who played a major role in the walk of honour, the local residents and schools who come out to the Anzac and Remembrance day events, were also part of this award.
Mr Lewis also said he shares the award with the Burnside Retirement Village Centennial Living where he has lived for the last 19 years.
Tara Murray
