Stanley Marks OAM

After graduating from Brighton Grammar in 1946, Stan studied journalism at the University of Melbourne. A reporting role with The Herald marked the beginning of a lifetime career in journalism and public relations, including fostering the rights of minority groups, international understanding and the ability to laugh at life’s machinations and one’s self.

Stan worked for Australian journals in London, Canada and America prior to taking up the role of Public Relations and Publicity Supervisor for the ABC. Later, he became Public Relations and Publicity Manager for the Australian Tourist Commission.

Much of Stan’s writing aimed to encourage an in-depth understanding of, and respect between, races, cultures and religions. Aged 30, he wrote in The New York Times about a special world-wide United Nations Youth Council to foster greater global cooperation and understanding, especially between the adult and young people’s worlds. In London’s The Stage journal, Stan originated the idea of a British Commonwealth Arts Festival.

For 17 years, Stan edited the Jewish Holocaust Centre’s magazine, Centre News. Alongside his wife Eva, Stan has worked tirelessly at the Centre as a guide.

Stan has written 14 books that have been published in Australia and overseas. He originated and worked with renowned cartoonist Aubrey Collete on MS, a popular cartoon strip, and a play, Viva la Difference, both of which looked at male–female relations. Stan has spoken on the radio for the BBC, CBC (Canada) and ABC (Australia) and Radio Australia on a variety of topics, including the importance of humour.

Stan was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia and Glen Eira Citizen of the Year for his work for various community activities and contributions to writing.