Michael Patten OAM

Michael Patten OAM was taught from a young age to live by the ethos of 'service above self'. 

Coming from a family who always gave back to the community, he followed in their footsteps and joined Scouts, where he became a life member as an adult. 

From there, the natural next step, he says, was to join Rotary, where he held numerous positions in different local clubs and at state level. 

Mr Patten was awarded the medal of the Order of Australia for his service to community through a range of organisations, which he celebrated at an Investiture Ceremony in Government House Tasmania in April.  

"I was surprised and honoured when I received notification of this award but being here in Government House and having my family around me while I receive my award makes it all seem more real and significant,” he says.  

From 2010 to 2016, Mr Patten was chief commissioner of Scouts Tasmania, one of many roles he has filled with the Scouts. He has also contributed in the field of education, including serving as the Tasmanian delegate at the Australian Association of Special Educators and former treasurer of the Tasmanian Association of Gifted and Talented Children.  

He is a life member of the Australian College of Educators, where he used to be state treasurer and is currently district governor of the Rotary clubs in Tasmania.  

Mr Patten says experiencing his Investiture Ceremony with his 97-year-old mother Nola and wife Margot was just as important as the medal itself.

"Margot and I have been married for 50 years and she has been part of any achievement I have made. She is my best supporter, and most valued sounding board," he says. 

"It is also wonderful to have my 97-year-old mum here with me, because from an early age she modelled to me the importance of volunteering.

"Receiving this award has heightened my awareness of those around me who have done as much or more for the community ... I will certainly be nominating others in the future."