WORLD War II veteran and committed community man Colin Cameron OAM will be remembered in the region for his caring nature and dedication to helping others.
At 99 years old, the loving father and grandfather sadly passed away yesterday morning in his home town of Mount Gambier.
With a life full of great memories and achievements, the humble family man made a significant impact on the Limestone Coast community.
Enlisting in the Navy in 1943, he spent many years using a teletype machine – a landline communication tool – to send messages across Australia.
Upon returning to the Blue Lake city, he involved himself heavily in public life, playing an integral role in the Rotary Club of Mount Gambier West and the Mount Gambier Community Returned and Services League.
He was a charter member of the Rotary Club of Mount Gambier West and was awarded both the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) and the RSL Meritorious Medal – the second of its kind to be given in Mount Gambier.
Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell yesterday reflected on his time spent with the much-loved local resident.
“I am privileged in my position to meet wonderful members of our community – there are non better than Colin Cameron,” he said.
“Today is a sad day for Mount Gambier, we have certainly lost a local treasure.”
Meeting with Mr Cameron and a wider group of friends on Wednesday mornings, Mr Bell said he will be greatly missed.
“I remember one story fondly – Colin and Cyril were debating on who had the fastest scooter,” he said.
“They wanted me to close the main street so the result could be sorted once and for all.
“I was happy to oblige but wondered whose insurance policy would cover any accidents.
“I will miss our local treasure and Wednesdays will never be the same.”
Mr Cameron also possessed a great love for theatre, both watching and contributing to events held at the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre, including as an announcer for the Mount Gambier Eistedfodd.
Theatre manager Frank Morello described Mr Cameron as a much respected and valued friend of the theatre who will be sadly missed by all.
“He was a lover of the arts, a true gentleman and dignified statesmen,” he said.
Mr Morello said Mr Cameron was a common fixture at the theatre, attending dozens of shows over the years with his good friends the Whennans.
“They always sat together in the back row, with Colin assuming seat N-17, it was his seat and we all knew it,” he said.
“It was standard practice to reserve Colin’s seat at the start of the season, in the knowledge he would eventually call into the box office to buy his tickets.
“I enjoyed his company, friendship, sense of humour and his take on life and the arts.
“The Helpmann extends its sympathies to his family and friends.”
