Governor General Peter Cosgrove has announced the recipients of this year’s Queen’s Birthday honours, commending citizens for their various services to Australia and the greater community.

Mr Simon Burke and Hon Pierre William Slicer QC were among those to receive top honours this year, becoming recognized as Officers (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia.

Burke is being recognized for his contribution to the performing arts, while Slicer has been honoured for service to the judiciary – which includes his work on the Salamanca Campaign in the 1970s, advocating for the rights of the LGBT community.

Others receiving the medal of the Order of Australia in 2015 include Professor Bruce James Brew, Phillip Carswell, Dr Tuck Meng Soo and Stephen Wisbey, all of whom are being hailed for their positive contributions to the lives of those living with HIV/AIDS in Australia and across the globe.

Visit www.gg.gov.au for a complete list of this year’s honourees. 

Leigh Hill