At 98 years old, Custodio “Chappie” Lobo has been recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his lifelong commitment to community service in Perth. But his journey to this national honour began far from Australian shores — in Uganda, within a vibrant Goan family.
Born in Uganda, Lobo’s early life was a blend of cultural depth and academic pursuit. He was sent to boarding school in Pune, India, and went on to graduate from Bombay University with a degree in Accounting. In 1950, he returned to Uganda and began working for the Uganda Electricity Board, carving out a stable life — until history intervened.
In 1972, then-dictator Idi Amin ordered the expulsion of all British passport holders, giving them just 90 days to leave the country. With a British passport in hand, Lobo applied to migrate to Australia, where he was accepted and began a new chapter that would ultimately benefit countless Australians.
Despite the upheaval, Lobo quickly established himself, not only professionally — as the inaugural Acting Academic Registrar at Curtin University — but also as a quiet force in the community. Though he kept his university role and community service work separate, both were driven by the same ethos: service above self.
Over the decades, Lobo has played instrumental roles in numerous organisations, including the Goan Overseas Association, Indian Society of Western Australia, Australian Asian Association, and Canning City Lions Club. His work ranged from fundraising and treasurer roles to committee leadership, always with a focus on fostering inclusion and care.
His enduring contributions were recognised in 2008 when he received the Melvin Jones Fellowship, the highest honour from the Lions Clubs of Australia, along with Life Membership.
Even today, Lobo continues to fundraise and chair committees, embodying the spirit of community that his adopted country so values. His story is not only one of service — it is one of resilience, migration, and the powerful impact one individual can have on generations.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, in announcing this year’s list, praised the honourees for their “passion, generosity, energy and resolve”, and noted the growing recognition of public service excellence across the country. “These honours recognise the selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care that flourish across our country,” she said.
“Every day, and all across the country, Australians are doing extraordinary things with passion, generosity, energy, and resolve. … I look forward to meeting many of you at the investiture of your awards.”
In the coming months, honourees will be presented with their awards at investiture ceremonies held at Government House in their respective states and territories.
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