Phillip Blashki

Phillip Blashki (21 February 1837 – 21 October 1916) was a Polish immigrant to Australia who rose to be a successful businessman,[1] magistrate, JP, holder of many positions of public responsibility and associated with numerous community and charitable events in Melbourne.

After working as a tassell-maker in Manchester he married a young Polish widow, Hannah Potash, and arrived in Melbourne on the masted ship called the 'Alice Walton' on 1 April 1858.

Around 1875 he opened his city store in Bourke Street Melbourne and grew it into a thriving business making jewellery, Masonic regalia and significant ceremonial medals and chains.

As recognition for his work as a J.P., philanthropist and community leader, Blashki was one of the invited guests at the opening of the first federal parliament at the Exhibition Buildings.

Blashki was a council member of the Victorian Chamber of Manufacturers[10] and was instrumental in founding and/or the early development of a number of communal and charitable organisations (including the provision of seed funding in some instances).

Blashki held various offices in several Lodges over a period of 40+ years and was appointed District Grand Warden under the British Constitution.

On his 70th birthday another illuminated address signed by thirty solicitors practising in the Russell St.court, was handed to him by the then Prime Minister, Alfred Deakin.

[13] Blashki was a foundation member and a term vice-president of the Victorian Employer's Federation,[14] co-founded the Jewish Herald Association and was on the board of the Benevolent Asylum and the Montefiore Homes.