Romsey stalwart Doug Newnham is the worthy recipient of the Romsey-Lancefield RSL sub-branch ‘Spirit of ANZAC Award’ for 2024.
This award sees community members nominated for the exemplary service they provide their community and the qualities that uphold the values of selflessness, courage, and loyalty.
At the award ceremony on Tuesday, November 12, Mr Newnham was recognised for the years of service he had given to the community of Romsey and surrounds.
Romsey Lancefield RSL’s Margaret McLennan and Doug Newnham pose for a photo.
His generosity is well known to locals through his substantial donations to local charities, sporting clubs, and organisations. He has given his time and energy to countless local projects, fundraising efforts, and hands-on service.
He has been a local government councillor, Shire President of Romsey, President of the Romsey Primary School, and former Chairman and Director of the Lancefield Romsey Community Bank. He has been made a life member of Lions International, and received the Ken Edgeley Medal from the Civil Contractors Federation of Victoria for his services and contribution to the Civil Construction Industry over 40 years.
He is highly regarded by both government and private business for his professional knowledge.
Those close to Mr Newnham describe him as a true gentleman whose whole life has always revolved around working hard for his business Newearth Constructions, his loving family and meeting their needs, and his absolute passion for the community of Romsey to succeed.
Not one for fanfare, Mr Newnham humbly accepted the honour, gave thanks to Romsey-Lancefield RSL branch member Margaret McLennan for the nomination, and was quick to recognise the other nominees for the service they too have provided.
Attending the ceremony, Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell described Mr Newnham as a true example of the spirit of community.
“Doug is and always has been an integral member for the Romsey community. As a local businessman and employer, he has always championed Romsey, worked hard to advance the town and surrounding area, and invested his time and effort into the town’s future,” he said.
“For over 50 years, Doug has contributed in all ways to the benefit of our community and is still very much involved, and his generosity continues—such as his recent donation of a T-Model Ford to the Romsey Men’s Shed for restoration and community use.
“He is modest, a quiet achiever, and supported by his lovely wife Carol. Romsey is blessed to have him.”
Mr Mitchell also congratulated the other nominees for 2024, including Christine Whitney (nominated by Joanne Reuther), Donna Van der Kraan (nominated by Wayne Smith) and Alex Gorman (nominated by Lynne Rodda), for the outstanding dedication they had shown to the community.
Margaret McLennan, who nominated Mr Newnham for the award, described him as a man of ‘great discipline and motivation.’
“His modesty, despite his accomplishments is truly admirable. The legacy Doug gives our community covers the past, present, and the future. He is a man of conviction and principle, exemplifying the qualities of the ANZAC spirit,” she said.
