[ Home ] [ Up ]

(as printed in local paper on 12 June 1986).

"Tuncurry stalwart, Mr. Mick Constable, is the toast of the North Coast this week, having been listed on the Queen's Birthday honour roll.

Leslie John Constable, known as Mick (he says it's because of the Irish blood in him) has been awarded the Order of Australia Medal for service to the community.

Mr. Constable was in Manning River District Hospital when he officially heard the news on Monday. The news spread quickly.

Back at home, he says he still can't believe it.

'I got quite a shock. I'm still a bit dazed. The hospital cook even sent me up a special meal when she heard', he laughed.

Mr. Constable has been behind numerous organisations, too many to mention. Some include Tuncurry-Forster Centenary Celebrations, original Oyster Festival Committee member, Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, Forster-Tuncurry Bicentennial Committee, Family Historical Society and Tuncurry Primary Headmaster for sixteen and a half years.

He was also selected as one of seven hundred people, from throughout the world, to win a Fulbright Scholarship in 1956-57 on a teaching exchange in the U.S.A.

'I've been involved in a lot of things in the community, but I only start them off, then step out and let others take over', said Mr. Constable. 'Things get too static if the same people run an organisation year after year. You see what a town needs and get that started, and then let others take it over'.

Shire President, Cr. Bruce Parsons, has congratulated Mr. Constable.

'I'm sure all Tuncurry-Forster people will be delighted with this recognition of his genuine community involvement.' he said.