By NATALIE GALLENTI
EVEN as a teenager Graham Dempsey knew he wanted to devote his life to the community.
After reading a quote from iconic Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw that stated life belongs to the “whole community and as long as I can live it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can”, the 14-year-old sought voluntary work and almost 60 years on nothing much has changed.
The founder of the Melton Valley Rotary Club, Mr Dempsey has a list of accolades as long as his arm, including Melton Shire Citizen of the Year, Melton Shire councillor, SES and St John Ambulance volunteer.
He has been donating blood since 1962 and spends many afternoons at the Melton Police Station signing statements as a justice of the peace. He has also helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars through the rotary club to assist the community.
The hours between his early morning walks to the moment his head hits the pillow of an evening are devoted to helping others, including his three step-grandchildren.
The garden enthusiast said he wouldn’t change a thing.
“I can’t do much while I’m dead,” Mr Dempsey told Star.
“When they bury you that’s when you retire. I have no plans to give it up.”
The marriage celebrant said knowing his work was helping Melton residents was enough of a reward for him and encouraged other people to volunteer.
“It’s about doing the right thing for people and those who need help.
“It’s like donating blood…everyone can do it.”
Mr Dempsey is a nominee for the Star of the Year Award.
Each week a different volunteer will be profiled and a winner of the inaugural award will be announced 8 January next year.
Do you know a volunteer? Please send details to star@starnewsgroup.com.au
