Known to many as 3AW’s ‘Mann About Town’, Mount Macedon local David Mann has been named a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours for his service to the community through charitable organisations, to business, and to the promotions and marketing sector.
Mr Mann is affectionately known as “the civilian with a trifecta of experience” in the emergency services circle for his roles with Victoria Police, Melbourne Metropolitan Fire Brigade and Ambulance Victoria, where he has worked in an operational capacity for more than 30 years.
He was subsequently awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the Australia Day National Honours List in January 2006.
“It is a very humbling experience to receive an honour in 2006 and again in 2018,” he told the Express.
“The honours are something that you never expect but it just reminds me of how many good people I work with on the various boards, trusts and foundations.
“I don’t like talking about myself but I do like to be able to talk about the people I work with and the message we need to get out.”
One of the most important of those messages is that of mental health, and as chairman of Entertainment Assist Mr Mann works to look after the mental health of people working in the entertainment industry.
“Unfortunately five people a week in the industry attempt suicide so it’s making a difference, I have a fantastic board and work with fantastic people to reduce the risk of suicide,” he said.
Mr Mann’s government appointments include former member of the Australia Day Committee (Victoria), member of the Ministerial Small Business Advisory Council, chairman of the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross Reserve and chairman of the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation.
“On Blue Ribbon Day, September 29 every year, we remember the 159 who have died in the line of duty and honour those who serve today and the money we raise goes to hospital equipment and living memorials – wards named after police officers who have died – and good community projects,” Mr Mann said.
His other appointments include ambassador for Phoenix Australia, patron of Life Education Victoria, board member of the Connected Communities Melbourne Foundation, and director of the Queen Victoria Market Board.
“I’m loving my role with the Queen Victoria Market – to make sure we preserve the history and have a future,” he said.
“I only do it if I can make a difference. I don’t just want to chair board meetings, I want to see that things are done.”
