Local leader reflects

Sitting on a bench, looking out at Shoalwater Marine Park it was clear Laurie Smith was proud to call himself a Rockingham man.

It was announced this week the 70-year-old would be rewarded for his life’s dedication to the City with a Medal of the Order of Australia, the highest recognition for outstanding achievement and service in the nation’s honours system.

Mr Smith, who has spent a big part of his life dedicating his time to local government, community groups and charities, said he was totally taken aback by the announcement.

“You are basically being honoured for part of your life, so it is a tremendous honour,” he said.

“I then think of my wife and my family, my rotary club, my business associates and my extended family, all of whom have made all of this possible.

"Without that environment it certainly wouldn’t have happened.”

Arriving in Rockingham with his wife Nola in 1969, Mr Smith said he had enjoyed juggling committee roles and responsibilities, including being Rockingham Mayor from 1991 to 1994, Shire president from 1986 to 1988 and a councillor from 1982 to 1988.

A pharmacist by trade, Mr Smith said he has had great success in his coastal hometown.

“This area has given me a huge amount and I have just tried to give something back,” he said.

“Whilst I have enjoyed my business efforts, the highlight in many respects was being mayor of the City, which was an amazing time.”

Still working part-time, Mr Smith said he now he mostly enjoyed spending time with family and friends, fishing, travelling, reading and admiring the beauty Rockingham had to offer.

He said Rockingham deserved to be put in the spotlight and residents should be proud of its natural beauty and the City it had become.

“It has still got the old charm, Rockingham has a lot of soul, it has a lot of character,” he said.

“You are always going to get the trashers, but I think there are a lot of people in this city that really count for something and they reckon this city counts for something, and that shows through.”

Recognition and awards

2012 - Freeman of the City of Rockingham.

2002/2003 - Ross Smith Perpetual Trophy, Rotarian of the Year, Rotary Club of Palm Beach.

1999 - Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary Club of Palm Beach.

1994 - Rockingham Citizen of the Year.

1988 - Australia Day Citizen of the Year.