The Australia Day featured a long list of recognisable names from the worlds of theatre, music and movies – but also among those honoured were everyday Australians who have made remarkable achievements.
Olivia Newton-John was made a Companion of the Order of Australia. Aside from her decades long career in acting and music, the singer has also raised millions of dollars to establish a leading cancer research and treatment facility in Melbourne.
Western Australian philanthropist Stan Perron was also given the system’s highest order for his eminent service to the community through philanthropic contributions to a range of charitable organisations, and to the commercial property sector. The billionaire passed away in November.
Kylie Minogue was named an Officer of the Order of Australia for her achievements in music and entertainment, while Magda Szubanski was honoured for her career and her advocacy for marriage equality. Broadcaster Julie McCrossin was also on the list for her advocacy for the LGBTI communities.
Several former politicians also made the grade, Warren Truss – former leader of the Nationals – was given the Companion of the Order of Australia. Former Speaker of the House Anna Burke was made an Officer of the Order of Australia. Former members for Hillarys Rob Johnson was given the Medal of the Order of Australia.
Broadcaster Dennis Cometti was acknowledged for his work in media as well as his community contributions. Toby Allen, Phil Burton and brothers Andrew and Mike Tierne – who make up Aussie band Human Nature, also made the cut.
Sally Goldner was awarded for significant service to the LGBTIQ community through advocacy roles, and to the broadcast media. Goldner has spent more than two decades speaking about LGBTI rights and served as the Executive Director of Transgender Victoria.
Brenda Appleton who is the co-chair of Victoria’s LGBTI task force was also acknowledged for her services to the LGBTI communities. Appleton is the current chair of Transgender Victoria.
Another Victorian, Sharon Lewin was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to medical research, and to education, in the field of infectious diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS. Stuart Kollmorgen was also recognised for his longstanding community work including contributing time to the Victorian AIDS Council, Midsumma Festival and queer radio station JOY 94.9.
Ann Madden, who also is based in NSW was recognised for her work in community health. She previously served as a advisor on the United Nations Global Health Commission on HIV and the Law. While Queensland’s Dr John Treseder can now add the letter AO after his name, he has also worked in the fight against HIV.
Dr Margaret Hellard was recognised for her work in battling infectious diseases. Since 2017 Dr Hellard has been the Co-Chair of the World Health Organisation’s Strategic and Technical Advisory Committee on HIV and Hepatitis. Professor Jennifer Hoy was also recognised for her work in infectious diseases. Professor Hoy has been the director of the HIV/AIDS service at Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital for more than twenty years.
Mark Orr, the former President of the AIDS Council of New South Wales was also given the Order of Australia. Current ACON President Dr Justin Koonin said Orr was a well-deserving recipient of one of Australia’s highest orders of merit.
“ACON commends Mark on this wonderful recognition of his decades-long advocacy work for LGBTI people and people with HIV,” Dr Koonin said.
“Through his involvement with various community organisations, Mark has played a key role in helping deliver a range of important health and rights outcomes for our communities.
“His dedicated service over many years, utilising his leadership skills, governance and health expertise in a voluntary capacity for the betterment of organisations that serve LGBTI communities and people living with HIV, has been quite outstanding.
“In addition to his many community roles, Mark has mentored many others as they take on leadership roles within our communities.” Dr Koonin said.
Alongside his work with ACON, Mark Orr has also been a board member of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. He is currently the CEO of mental health organisation Flourish.
Ignatius Jones was also included in the awards being given out. The entertainer, who was born Juan Trapaga, made his name in bands like Pardon Me Boys and Jimmy and the Boys. For many years he’s served as the director of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. He was also the Director of Ceremonies for the Gay Games when in was held in Sydney.
Ian Thorpe was given the medal of the order back in 2001, he’s now been upgraded to being a member for continued work with charities and his work with indigenous Australians. Thorpe also worked on the campaign to bring marriage equality to Australia.
OIP Staff
