MIDLAND and Districts Historical Society chair Matthew Pavlinovich received the Centenary Merit Award at the Affiliated Societies State History Conference.

The award is presented by the Royal Western Australian Historical Society and recognises significant contributions and dedication to local history through volunteer work.

Mr Pavlinovich said he was delighted to receive the award, but wasn’t expecting it.

“I do what I do for the love I have for Midland and for the areas in the 6056 postcode. I don’t want the history to be forgotten, so that’s why I do it. I don’t expect individual awards, but I’m happy to see Midland’s name being recognised,” he said.

Mr Pavlinovich has lived his entire life in Midland and his fascination with history started in 2013 with a Remember Midland page on Facebook, which then evolved into the Midland and Districts Historical Society in 2016.

“Growing up, I saw the area before Great Northern Highway was (changed) and when that was the main part of Midland – the traditional heart,” he said.

“I can remember everything here from the shops to the hotels to the people, and I want to keep that alive and make sure those stories are not forgotten.”

He is also pleased to have contributed to the society’s projects, from the Midland Railway Company commemorative line to recognising Wexcombe to saving the Midland oak tree and getting it relocated.

However, the people are at the heart of what he does.

“The best part of what we’re doing is how we get to bring people together and reunite them. We’ve got members on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland and in Lismore in New South Wales. They all used to live in Midland,” he said.

“I tell everyone that if you leave this place, if you go and live somewhere else in the metro area or country area, this is still your home and you can’t take that away. That’s why there’s a lot of interest from people that aren’t living in this area anymore.”

The society currently has 90 members and hopes to one day open a museum and research centre in Midland.

“I want to thank the society committee for nominating me for the award, and also thank every individual that’s contributed and helped, not just through my journey, but through the society’s journey over the last 10 years because without their help, I wouldn’t have this award,” Mr Pavlinovich said.