A life member of the Western Bulldogs who has dedicated his life to community service and volunteering was recently named the 2007 Victorian Senior of the Year by Premier John Brumby.

Ronald John Palmer, aged 82, is known to many as ‘Mr Footscray’ because of his involvement in almost every aspect of community life in the inner western suburb.

The Premier presented the 2007 Senior of the Year Award to Mr Palmer at a ceremony at Government House. The award celebrates the achievements of older Victorians.

“Ronald is a role model to Victorians of all ages, showing how one person can make such a positive impact on their community, regardless of age,” Mr Brumby said.

“He deserves our respect and gratitude for the vital roles he has played throughout his life in the Footscray community.”

“Strong communities have high levels of volunteering and people like Ronald Palmer set a good example for us all. The awards show the important role seniors play in making Victoria a great place to live, work and raise a family,” Mr Brumby said.

For the past 20 years Ronald has been a member of the West Footscray Rotary Club and has helped to develop a healthy school breakfast program at Gilmore Girls College. As President of the Footscray Yarraville City Band, Ronald’s involvement over the past 40 years has ensured the band received support from the local council to ensure its ongoing success.

Ronald established the Footscray Festival, is Treasurer of Friends of Footscray Park, life member of the Footscray Community Arts Centre, President of the Footscray Historical Society and is a life member of the Footscray Football Club, now the Western Bulldogs AFL Club.

Western Bulldogs CEO was one of those who nominated Mr Palmer for the award ands said Mr Palmer's "football club life membership and his Order of Australia is reflective of the work that he has undertaken in the greater community in the west, particularly through arts, sporting, service and environmental organisations."

Dr Rose said that what he found especially remarkable was "that Mr Palmer, notwithstanding his age, continues his strong commitment to public service and we have no hesitation in confirming this gentlemen's status as a pillar of our community".