Albert Blashki

Albert was born in Melbourne on 8 June 1919, the eldest of four children of Hyman, a commercial traveller, and Stella Blashki. Albert was educated at Tooronga Road State School and University High School. In 1939, aged 20, he enlisted in the Australian Army Service Corps, and was discharged in 1946. Albert married Patricia Hardham in 1945, and they had six children.

Inspired by his father, who had acquired a small wire company in 1945, Albert set up business on his own in an old shed in 1954. During 1955, he purchased some land in Springvale for a factory. From those humble beginnings, Albert and his family developed Ace Wire Works, a multi-million-dollar business employing over 35 people.

In 1979, Albert became Citizen of the Year for Springvale. His commitment to “give something back” to his community motivated Albert to become a Springvale Councillor in 1980, serving on the Council until 1991. As mayor in 1985-86, Albert created the Disability Advisory Committee.

Albert lived in Springvale for 41 years, a city which provided a “marvellous melting pot” in which to bring up his family. His generous philanthropic work has spread across a wide range of community groups and organisations, including: The Springvale District Community Hospital, Whiteside Primary School, Springvale Secondary College, the Scout Movement, the Springvale Water Board, the Springvale and District Historical Society, the Lady Nell Seeing Eye Dog School, the Bicentennial Youth Music Association, and the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Albert’s passion and dedication to his wife and family was also to the people around him, evident in his hands-on work with the Springvale Benevolent Society.

Albert felt that the most important thing is “getting people to make sure that they live together as neighbours and friends”.