The Late John McDonald, the founding President of U3A SurfCoast received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

The citation states:
The late Mr John Reid McDONALD Formerly of Torquay VIC 3228 For service to the community through a range of roles and organisations.

Rotary Club of Torquay
• Treasurer, 2018-2019.
• Secretary, 2016-2017.
• Assistant Secretary, 2015-2016.
• Community Service Director, 2012-2013.
• Immediate Past President, 2011-2012.
• President, 2010-2011.
• Member, since 2001. Rotary Club of Mulgrave
• President, 2001-2002.
• Former Vocational Chairman. • Member, 1988-2002.

Barwon Water
• Chair, Audit and Risk Management Committee, 2009-2011.
• Member, Executive Renumeration Committee, 2009-2011.
• Deputy Chair, 2004-2011.
• Board Member, 2003-2011.

Other
• Board Member, Corangamite Catchment Management Authority, 1997-1999.
• Chief Executive Officer, Southern Rural Water, 1988-1995.
• Chairman, Parents Association', Haileybury College, Keysborough, 1980, 1983.
• Former Chair, Lions Village Torquay Incorporated.
• Former Chair, University of the Third Age.
• Former Member, RSL ANZAC Day Coordination Team, Torquay Sub-Branch, Returned and Services League of Australia.
• Former Committee Member, Torquay Book Fair.
• Former Volunteer, Torquay Food Aid.
• Former Member, Environmental Advisory Committee, Surf Coast Shire.

Awards and Recognition include:
• Paul Harris Fellowship, Rotary International, 1992.
• Avenue of Service Award, Rotary International.
• Local Legend, Surf Coast Shire, 2020, 2021