We couldn’t be prouder of two of our wonderful volunteers, Keith Murdoch and David Callinan, who were both named as finalists in the Community Service Award at the 2026 Ballarat Seniors Awards!
Both gentlemen make an extraordinary contribution to Royal South Street Society, although in very different ways.
Keith Murdoch is our ever-reliable jack of all trades! From transporting equipment and repairing just about anything, to ushering, backstage support and countless other jobs, Keith has been an absolute treasure since joining us in 2018. Always willing to lend a hand, and never without his trademark dry sense of humour, Keith is someone we simply couldn’t do without.
David Callinan has been quietly working his magic behind the scenes for more than 15 years, leading our Archives Team and meticulously preserving the extraordinary history of Royal South Street. His dedication, knowledge and attention to detail have ensured that generations of memories, achievements and records will be preserved for years to come.
Neither Keith nor David seeks the spotlight, which makes this recognition all the more special.
Congratulations, gentlemen! Being named finalists is a wonderful acknowledgement of your generosity, dedication and years of service. We are incredibly proud of you both and so grateful to have you as part of our Royal South Street family. ❤️
David Callinan – Community Service Award
David Callinan has dedicated more than 15 years to preserving the rich history and cultural legacy of the Royal South Street Society. Since joining the Society’s Archives Team in 2010, he has played a leading role in cataloguing and preserving historical records, photographs, awards and artefacts spanning more than 137 years.
Travelling regularly from Clunes to Ballarat, David has devoted countless volunteer hours to ensuring this valuable history remains accessible for future generations. His attention to detail and commitment have helped create a treasured resource for participants, researchers, families and the wider community.
Respected for his humility, reliability and quiet leadership, David generously shares his knowledge with fellow volunteers and continues to enrich the cultural heritage of our region.
Keith Murdoch – Community Service Award
Keith is a remarkable community volunteer whose dedication and service continue to make a lasting impact across Ballarat.
At 82 years of age, Keith remains one of the most active and dependable volunteers with the Royal South Street Society, where he has contributed since 2018 in roles including event logistics, stage support, ushering, ticket sales and volunteer assistance. Known for his reliability, practical skills and sense of humour, Keith is often the first person called upon when help is needed.
In 2024, he was recognised as the Society’s Volunteer of the Year after contributing 196 recorded volunteer hours. Keith also volunteers with the Ballarat Tool Library, and through his generosity and commitment continues to inspire others to give back to their community.
