HUMBLE and generous Mount Gambier resident Allan Dowdell was yesterday recognised for his years of contribution to the community with the prestigious Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
Widely respected and admired throughout the Blue Lake city, Mr Dowdell has dedicated much of his working and retired life to growing and supporting the community.
Through involvement with the Lions Club of Mount Gambier, the Mount Gambier Cycling Club, the Mount Gambier Boys Institute and as a councillor for the City of Mount Gambier, Mr Dowdell’s contributions go above and beyond.
“It feels very strange to think about receiving this honour – I haven’t let my mind wander there, but I won’t be making a big play of it,” he said.
“I am proud that it has all been voluntary – I didn’t go into it for money or recognition.”
As an avid cyclist, Mr Dowdell began his contribution to the community at the mere age of 16 with the Mount Gambier Cycling Club.
Initially competing in the newly-formed juniors club, he soon took on the role of a committee member, helping to build the Vansittart Park track and raising significant funds to keep the club running.
From there, Mr Dowdell served as president for 26 years – a record for the club – and received life membership in 1997 alongside his wife Barbara.
“Barb and I have been married for 65 years this year – I don’t know how she has put up with me for that long,” he said.
With an enduring passion for cycling, Mr Dowdell will celebrate 73 years with the club this year, however he admits his cycling days may soon be over.
“I get my bike out every now and then and do some laps around my backyard, but last time I was a bit more unsteady than I remember,” he joked.
Although many people may take things a bit slower once entering into retirement, it has been the opposite for Mr Dowdell, who spends a considerable amount of time volunteering with the Lions Club of Mount Gambier.
Over his years with the club, he has helped with the refurbishment of the Valley Lake Wildlife Park, organised installation of a new fence around the old Lake Terrace cemetery and assisted with various community events.
“I have certainly enjoyed my almost 45 years of club activity,” he said.
“I think every town should have a service organisation – it makes a big difference to the community.”
Mr Dowdell’s passion for the community has not gone unnoticed and in 2014 he was awarded the City of Mount Gambier Citizen of the Year.
Still full of energy and determination to keep active both psychically and mentally, Mr Dowdell said he will continue to contribute all he can to the community.
“Life is what you make it and sometimes you have to push yourself,” he said.
