
From Button Days to OAM: Les Williams’s story
Jul 24, 2024
Les Williams, recipient of the prestigious Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), has dedicated his life to community service and charitable work. His journey began at a young age and has significantly impacted numerous organisations and individuals over the decades.
“I raised money for the local surf life-saving club for their button day each year; I was around nine years old,” Les recalls. These early experiences laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication to helping others.
Les’s involvement with the Huntington’s Disease Association of Tasmania is particularly personal. “My father had been diagnosed with Huntington’s, and I reached out to them for some information. Eighteen months later, I was the President and have been involved with them since 1989.” His leadership and commitment have provided vital support for families affected by the disease since then.
Over the past decade, Les has significantly contributed to St John’s Parish in Glenorchy, through various fundraising initiatives. “I’ve fundraised for St John’s for 10 years, running fairs, dinner dances, and soup and sandwich days. I reckon I’ve helped raise between $60,000 and $80,000 for the parish over the years.”
Les worked as a firefighter for many years and was heavily involved in charitable work there. He has also volunteered at the Southern Cross Care Rosary Gardens kiosk, served as president of the Willow Court Parents and Friends Association and he volunteered with the Surf Life Saving Club for a couple of years. Dedication to so many worthwhile causes, giving back to communities all around southern Tasmania.
“It’s quite humbling to receive such an award,” Les says of his Order of Australia Medal. “I didn’t get involved with fundraising and charities to win any accolades, but it means a lot to receive the award.”
Les’s charitable efforts were always supported by his wife Lucy, who sadly passed away a couple of years ago. “She always encouraged and supported me, and we worked as a team. We were married for 50 years, raised three children of our own, and then helped raise grandchildren too.”
He encourages young people to get involved in volunteer work. “It’s a great way to socialise and learn. You get to appreciate the fact that you can help people. I’ve met a lot of nice people, and it’s great getting to know them.” His advice highlights the personal growth and fulfilment that comes from helping others.
Reflecting on his volunteer work, Les recalls a particularly meaningful experience. “I remember we once fundraised for a specialised wheelchair for someone, and when you saw the joy on their face when we handed it over, it gave a really good feeling. I also love seeing people enjoying themselves at the social events we’ve arranged.”
Though Les has had to slow down lately due to a diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer, his commitment to charitable work remains strong. He has most recently teamed up with Paul Hamilton, who runs the CBS Ageing Backwards movement program, to raise funds for the children’s ward at the Royal Hobart Hospital. He’s still fighting fit himself and will be completing 60km for The Long Run, a fundraising event held in September for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. You can donate directly to Les’ fundraising efforts here.
Les Williams’s contributions have touched countless lives and continue to inspire others to give back to their communities. Community Based Support is honoured to provide support to Les, including an annual spring clean, domestic assistance, and home modifications.