Long-time Gisborne resident Patricia Kaye has been recognised for more than five decades of dedicated community service, receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Patricia was honoured for her extensive contributions to community organisations across Gisborne and the wider region, particularly in the areas of health, emergency services, arts, education and volunteer fundraising.
A founding member of the Gisborne Ambulance Auxiliary in 1975, Patricia has served as treasurer continuously for 50 years and remains an active fundraiser. She also previously coordinated the popular Gisborne Antique Fair and has been recognised as an honorary member of the organisation.
Her commitment to community volunteering extends to the Gisborne Vintage Machinery Club, where she has been involved since helping establish the club in 1978. She continues to volunteer with the organisation and has previously played a key role in fundraising efforts. She is also an honorary member.
Patricia has been a member of the Gisborne Artists Society since 1982 and served as president during the 2010s. Throughout her involvement, she has also supported the society through fundraising activities.
Beyond these organisations, Patricia has contributed widely to community life in Gisborne. She has been a member of the Gisborne Ratepayers Association since 1976 and served as president of Gisborne Friends of Vision Australia from 2014 to 2022. She was also president of the Eye and Ear Committee at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital from 1990 to 1997.
Her volunteer service has included roles as secretary of Gisborne Leisure Learning, a member of Vision Australia, and a volunteer with the Gisborne Gazette.
Patricia’s dedication has earned numerous awards and acknowledgements over the years. Most recently, she received Ambulance Victoria’s 50 Years of Service Award in 2025. Previous honours include certificates of appreciation from Rural Ambulance Victoria and Macedon Ranges Shire Council, as well as life membership of the Probus Club of Gisborne.
Patricia said the OAM honour was a complete surprise.
“There’s so many people who do good things in the community,” she said.
“Gisborne’s always been a great community for volunteering and everybody always worked hard to get things we needed.”
The Medal of the Order of Australia recognises Australians who have made outstanding contributions to their communities and reflects the lasting impact Patricia has had on Gisborne through decades of tireless volunteer service.
Friends and colleagues describe her as a passionate community advocate whose commitment, leadership and generosity have helped strengthen many of the organisations that continue to serve local residents today.