Who’s Who in 22, Community: Wellsley ‘Jack’ Darby

Published 12:00am 7 December 2022

Wellsley (Jack) Darby was honoured with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2022 for a lifetime of service to the community.

The Redcliffe resident was recognised for his work in voluntary roles as a Justice of the Peace, ambassador at Brisbane Airport and with the Uniting Church.

He is presently the treasurer of the Azure Blue Retirement Village Independent Living Units Residents’ Committee, a Commissioner of Declarations at Redcliffe Hospital (since 2017) and Commissioner of Declarations at Redcliffe Library (since 2020).

Jack was a volunteer ambassador at Brisbane Airport from 2008-2021 and a Justice of the Peace from 1969-1994.

In 2020, he received a Long Service Award for 50 years of community service from the Justices of the Peace Branch, Department of Justice and Attorney-General.

Jack was also the treasurer of Chermside Kedron Community Church, Uniting Church in Australia from 2001-2007 and in the same role at Middle Ridge Uniting Church, Toowoomba, from 1993-2001.

The 93-year-old said volunteering had given him more than he had put in and was the secret to a long life.

Learning he was to receive an OAM this year moved him to tears and he said he was humbled by the honour.

Jack said the 12 ½ years he had been an ambassador at Brisbane Airport was a “wonderful experience” and had given him the chance to share his local knowledge with people from across the globe.

His work as a Commissioner of Declarations continues but is mostly at Redcliffe Library these days.

Residents celebrated Jack’s achievement with a morning tea following the announcement of his OAM on Australia Day, January 26.

About the honour

The Order of Australia (OAM) recognises Australians who have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional achievement.

Anyone can nominate a member of the community for an award in the Order of Australia.

Nominating someone is a chance to recognise a peer for their hard-work, service and dedication. It is an opportunity to celebrate those inspiring people who make our nation what it is.

To nominate a worthy recipient, head to the website