08/06/2026
Well deserved David Funnell 👏
OAM for council and community service
Born and bred in Camden, David Funnell has worn many hats throughout his 81 years, but it is his service to local government and the community that has earned him an Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
Mr Funnell was recognised in the King's Birthday 2026 Honours List.
While humbled by the honour, he is quick to point out that the award reflects the efforts of many people.
"I might have my name on the award, but a lot of people worked in the background for me to get it," he said.
Mr Funnell, who is president of the Camden Men's Shed, was among a dedicated team of volunteers who worked tirelessly to secure a new site and build a lasting facility. Mr Funnell is also a keen on trees and has throughout the years taken leadership in tree planting projects including most recently at the men’s shed location. He takes pride in knowing the all the work – from community focused projects to improvements and additions out at the Ferguson Lane facility is done as a team.
“Two generations down the track, people might not remember David Funnell, but they will see what we left behind," he said.
"We are doing things for Camden."
Mr Funnell is proud that the men's shed continues to evolve, with many of its projects providing a legacy for the community.
His community spirit has seen him support numerous organisations over many decades.
His contributions include serving as a volunteer and Honorary Life Member of the Camden Show Society since 2003, and a member of the Apex Club during the 1970s.
He also served as a Camden councillor from 2004 to 2012 and held the role of deputy mayor in 2004, 2006 and 2008.
During his time on council, he was the councillor representative on the Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park and Camden Town Farm Section 355 Management Committee from 2004 to 2012.
After leaving council, he continued his involvement as a community representative on the same committee from 2013 to 2021.
His first foray into local government came as an Independent Alderman from 1977 to 1980.
Mr Funnell said that as a councillor and community representative, he always aimed to achieve practical outcomes, from campaigning for a covered outdoor area and toilet blocks at the Camden Town Farm.
Like the men's shed, he said those achievements were only possible through the efforts of others.
"I might have the ideas, but it's people who do the work and give up their time," he said.
Mr Funnell said time is a valuable commodity and those who volunteer it are incredibly generous.
He also acknowledged the support of his wife, Charlotte, who has stood beside him throughout his many community endeavours.
Outside his community work, Mr Funnell operated a well-known electrical business from 1969 to 2014 and trained 67 apprentices during that time. One of those apprentices eventually became the business owner after Mr Funnell retired.
As a business owner, he sponsored a wide range of organisations and events, including the Camden Show, the Wollondilly Christmas Lights Competition, Society 389, Camp Quality, Camden Rugby Club and the Camden Falcons Football Club.
His business was also recognised with the Group Training Award for Excellence – Large Host Employer of the Year category from the Apprentice Employment Network NSW and ACT in 2003.
Mr Funnell's previous honours include Camden Citizen of the Year in 2018, Lifeline Macarthur's Philanthropist of the Year in 2012, and recognition as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Camden in 2011.
Now, his dedication to Camden and its people has been recognised on a national stage.
