The late Neville Galbraith, a cherished figure from Deception Bay, has been distinguished with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in profound recognition of his widespread contributions to both lawn bowls and the welfare of veterans.
This esteemed national honour acknowledges Mr. Galbraith’s lifelong dedication, placing him among a select few in the country specifically celebrated for their outstanding service to lawn bowls this year.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Service
The OAM for Mr Neville Galbraith is a tribute to his extensive and diverse service. He was a veteran himself, having served diligently in the Australian Army from 1962 to 1982, where he earned several service medals, including the Australian Active Service Medal 1945-75 with Clasp Vietnam.
Following his military career, he tirelessly championed the causes of fellow veterans, holding numerous significant positions within the 105th Battery, Royal Australian Artillery Association. His roles included Former President, Vice-President in the 1990s, and Former Treasurer for 14 years, making him an Inaugural Member of the association from 1993 until his passing in 2023.
Pillar of the Bowls Community
Beyond his profound commitment to veterans, Mr Galbraith was an integral part of the lawn bowls community, shaping the sport at various levels for decades. He held a range of leadership positions within Bowls Queensland, serving as a Former Board Director, Former President of the Men’s Section, Former Committee Member of the Men’s Section, and Former Coordinator of the Match Committee.
His influence extended locally and regionally, as he was an Office Bearer for the Southeast Queensland Bowls Association for 16 years, and an Office Bearer for the Brisbane North District Bowls Association from 2002 to 2023. Importantly, he was a long-standing Office Bearer at the Deception Bay Bowls Club from 1997 until 2023, where his presence was deeply valued.
Enduring Community Legacy
Mr Galbraith’s posthumous recognition underscores the immense impact one individual can have on their community. His tireless efforts in both sports administration and veterans’ support forged stronger, more connected networks in Deception Bay and across Queensland.
The OAM serves as a formal acknowledgment of a life devoted to improving the lives of others, leaving behind a legacy of selfless contribution that continues to resonate within both the bowling greens and the veterans’ community he so passionately served.
Published Date 12-Jun-2025
