“I was initially a bit embarrassed, but I’m pretty chuffed now,” he said.
Already named a Tatura Football Club Legend, a GVFL Legend and a member of the Greater Shepparton Sports Hall of Fame, he can now add an OAM to the accolades.
“I had no idea at all, I didn’t expect anything like that, I’m very grateful,” he said.
Mr McMahon is still active in football 68 years after he first pulled on the boots as a junior.
He played for Tatura for 35 years, winning the Junior League best player award, which launched him into senior football the following year, in 1958.
Before long, the young star became well known for his precise kicking ability — winning the GVL goal kicking award in 1966 and Tatura’s goal kicking award eight times.
That year he won Tatura’s best and fairest but the 14 times he was runner-up became the measure of his consistency and longevity.
There were flirtations with Collingwood and Melbourne, but Mr McMahon was happy to stay and play for Tatura.
“It is my passion, the Goulburn Valley Football League and football in general,” he said.
“I can’t get enough of country footy because of the people, they are so wonderful.”
After his playing career ended, Mr McMahon took to coaching and then shifted to administration, where he remains involved at a high level.
He’s turning 80 in May but has no intention of becoming a spectator rather than a participant.
“I really enjoy my footy and I will have the passion until the day I die; if I can do anything for the sport, I will.”
Now recognised by his country for his contribution, Mr McMahon said the only thing that could make the year better was a Tatura premiership.
“That would be very nice. Actually, I watched them train the other night and they looked all right,” he said.
“But we all have to get over Kyabram, they are a powerhouse.”
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