Dr Geoffrey Goodwin has been recognised for his outstanding work as a marine engineer. Picture: CONTRIBUTED
BY NATALIE GALLENTI
WHEN Dr Geoffrey Goodwin hear the news that he would receive a Medal of the Order of Australia he admitted to being “really chuffed”.
The humble Keilor East resident didn’t expect to receive one of the highest honours bestowed on Australia Day, but said it was a great moment when he was given the news.
“I didn’t expect anything like this. Obviously it means someone thought highly of me,” Dr Goodwin joked.
Born in England, he arrived in Australia 25 years ago and since then has made significant contributions to the Royal Australian Navy as a marine engineer.
Dr Goodwin is a specialist in propulsion and safety systems with the Defence Science and Technology and throughout his career was integral in solving diesel engine defects across the Royal Australian Naval fleet, particularly in the Collins Class submarine.
He also played a major role in the HMAS Westralia Board of Inquiry following the fatal fire on board that vessel in 1998, providing expert interpretation of technical reports and identifying engine problems after the refit of HMAS Westralia.
The extraordinary academic has also published a number of papers on instrumentation, specifically for piston engines, lubrication and fuel systems, logistics engineering, engine modelling and marine power and propulsion systems.
But while Dr Goodwin spent decades working with the RAN, he is now semi-retired and enjoys vastly different hobbies like singing with the ‘Melbournaires’ and spending time with his two grandchildren.
He also enjoys working on his father’s Bubblecar, which took 39 years to restore.
Dr Goodwin and his family enjoyed a traditional barbecue on Australia Day and celebrated his award with a bottle of bubbly.
