Service has its rewards

By Danielle Galvin
ENDEAVOUR Hills resident Dr Anne Marie Astin has received a Public Service Medal for her tireless work as a biochemist in the Victorian dairy industry.
Among her long list of achievements, Dr Astin has served as CEO of Dairy Food Safety Victoria for 10 years up until last year. Prior to her time as head of the government authority, Dr Astin was land registry director at Land Victoria.
“I was stoked to receive the Public Service Medal. I have some great friends and work with some fantastic colleagues who were behind the nomination,” she said.
The retired biochemist is now the chairwoman of Wellsprings for Women in Dandenong, and is still an active member of the south-eastern community.
“I think without realising it a lot of women are inspirational. I’ve realised recently that my mother has been a big inspiration in my life, she always had a can-do attitude. Australian women never cease to amaze me.”
Dr Astin studied at the University of Liverpool, and worked her way up to the top since migrating to Australia in 1977. The Queen’s Birthday Honour was awarded to Dr Astin for her leadership in the dairy food industry, and her work as an inspirational, strong woman.
She is passionate about mentoring young people and working with disadvantaged women.
“I find that my community work is very rewarding. For women, I think making a difference is more important than being a boss at the top of a company. As the chair of the Wellsprings for Women group, I’ve worked with some very isolated women. It’s very rewarding to make a difference and empower people,” she said.
Last year, Dr Astin was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women. But she says one of her most exciting roles to date is learning how to be a grandmother.
“In January, my daughter Claire had a baby. I’m enjoying learning how to be a grandmother!”
While she enjoys walking, cryptic crosswords and good company, Dr Astin says keeping her mind active is most important.
“I think selflessness gets you a long way. I was shocked and so proud to receive the Public Service Medal, but being engaged in the community is so rewarding,” she said.