Including 783 names of individuals identified for their achievements in fields ranging from media, to sports, to politics, and just about everything in between; the Queen’s Birthday 2014 honours list is a varied one indeed.
Of the 847 nominations received by the Governor-General’s office, 571 were approved with a further 212 meritorious and military awards announced.
NSW Governor Marie Bashir became the second recipient of a Dameship, following in the footsteps of former Governor-General Quentin Bryce. Bashir, who retires in October, was awarded the honour by Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
Of the seven individuals honoured with the Companion (AC) in the General Division, Dr Megan Clark, Chief Executive CSIRO, was the only woman to make the list and was honoured for eminent service to scientific research and development.
The world of entertainment was well represented with four members of the Seekers – Judith Durham, Athol Guy, Bruce Woodley, and Keith Potger – being made officers of the Order of Australia (AO) together with the founders of Lonely Planet, Maureen and Tony Wheeler, Ziggy Switkowski, chairman of NBN Co, and Professor Paul Graboysky, jazz pianist and composer. In addition, Richard Wilkins of Channel Nine, Lyndon Terracini of Opera Australia, and Architect Alex Tzannes were all appointment members of the Order of Australia along with the late Lex Watson, HIV and gay rights activist, who was posthumously appointment as a member.
