Frank Mallard is the 2019 Western Australia Senior Australian of the Year, who was a Yamatji elder, ex-serviceman and passionate volunteer.

Part of the Stolen Generation, Mr Mallard served in the Australian Army from 1962-85 and in the Army Reserves from 1986-99, but on returning home was rejected by the RSL, like other Aboriginal soldiers.

This spurred him to promote the military service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within Veterans’ Affairs and the broader community.

Despite living with PTSD and Parkinson’s disease, Frank was a dedicated veterans’ issues volunteer and the media officer at Ellenbrook RSL.

He was also the chairperson of Voice of the Voiceless Ministry that helps people with addiction, mental illness and social issues.