A tale of two Robbies – and a city with a key dilemma

The Age

06-07-2025

What does our longest-serving prime minister, Sir Robert Menzies, have in common with legendary UK pop star Robbie Williams? Both have been honoured by the City of Melbourne, that's what.
In January, Lord Mayor Nick Reece bounded on stage at Fed Square and handed over a key to the city to the former Take That heartthrob in front of 10,000 adoring fans.
But the surprise award led to a council row and a review of procedures for awarding such honours, which decided that unilateral prize-giving was out.
Melbourne being Melbourne, the whole thing is strictly hierarchical.
The 'Honorary Freeperson' has only been bestowed on three people – ever: Menzies, Dame Elisabeth Murdoch and Nelson Mandela. It is the 'highest form of recognition' a way of 'bestowing a city's acclamation on a distinguished person'.
Next tier down is the 'Roll of Honour' signed by visiting 'Heads of State and other notable leaders', often as part of 'special welcoming ceremonies' with a 'certificate of the occasion'.
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The 'Key to the City' award is for an individual, group or organisation that furthers the 'ideals of the city', or it can 'recognise outstanding achievement' in sport, entertainment or humanitarian work at a national or international level.
It has 'traditionally been used as a marketing and promotion tool to provide an opportunity for mass public recognition'. Sounds like our Robbie. Many thanks for that AFL grand final show a few years back.