Recognition for voluntary community service

Mr Herbert Leake of Woy Woy has received an Order of Australia Medal in the Queen's Birthday Honours for service to the community on the Central Coast.

Mr Leake said he had dedicated his retirement to volunteering, and had volunteered for 33 years.

"It's my life," he said.

"I'm involved in some sort of volunteering most days.

"I go to the local schools, I deliver meals on wheels and I've been involved in other organisations as well.

"It's the socialising that I do.

"I have made many friends over the years with many people of different ages.

"I feel I get more out of it than I give," Mr Leake said.

Mr Leake has been a driver for Meals on Wheels since 1985, when he first retired.

As a life member of the Kincumber Branch of the Probus Club, Mr Leake has occupied many positions: treasurer from 1987 to 1990, vice president from 1995 to 1996, president from 1996 to 1997 and historian from 2007 to 2009.

Mr Leake said he thoroughly enjoyed the variety of activities in Probus.

"We do all sorts of things ... lunches, theatre parties, a walking group to name a few," Mr Leake said.

Mr Leake has also been a volunteer teacher's aide at Woy Woy South Public school since 2003.

Mr Leake's other accolades include the Centenary Medal in 2002 and recognition as Central Coast Volunteer of the Year in 2014.

SOURCE:

Interview, 14 Jun 2018

Herbert Leake, Woy Woy

Reporter: Elizabeth Green