Hey Hey it's Saturday icon dedicates award to late friend

The host of Hey Hey it's Saturday, a long-running comedy variety show that launched in 1971, was awarded the gong at Melbourne's Town Hall on July 1.

Mr Somers, 2004 recipient of a Medal of the Order of Australia, raises money for Victorian charities with 10 per cent of profits from his ticketing company StageCenta going to good causes.

The 72-year-old supports a number of charities including Camp Quality, for terminally ill children, Kids Under Cover, supporting homeless youths and the Lost Dogs Home in North Melbourne.

Mr Somers honoured Hey Hey it's Saturday voiceover man John Blackman saying the award was a highlight after "a rather solemn week".

Mr Blackman, who died aged 76, was laid to rest on June 23.

"John was a passionate and loyal Victorian as well," Mr Somers said.

"He is not here but in part I'd like to dedicate this award to him because we had an endearing friendship," he said.

"I love the guy. We went back over 50 years."

He also thanked his wife Julie da Costa for her ongoing support.

The Victoria Day awards honour contributions to community and public service with the former chief health officer of Victoria Dr Brett Sutton receiving the 2023 distinction.

"Our award winners have all shown public and community service at the highest levels and we are excited to share their achievements with all Victorians," Victoria Day Council chairperson Marissa Barter-Waters said.