More than 700 Australians recognised in Queen's Birthday honours

More than 700 Australians have received awards in the Queen's Birthday honours announced today, with a range of professionals and volunteers in the arts, recreation and sport being recognised for their achievements.

There were 170 women and 349 males appointed to the Order of Australia while a further 198 Australians were recognised through military and meritorious awards.

Of the hundreds recognised, eight people received the top honour of Companion of the Order of Australia.

Basketball star Lauren Jackson has been made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO), for her record in basketball, as well as her off-court work with sexual assault and domestic violence services.

Australia Council Chair Rupert Myer was honoured as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to the visual and performing arts, through governance roles with leading cultural institutions, as a supporter and benefactor, to the promotion of philanthropy, and to the community.

Singer-songwriter Archie Roach has been made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to the performing arts and social justice.

Actor Simon Burke has been acknowledged for his contributions to the performing arts with an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) award.

Raymond 'Stingray' Menhinnitt has been made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to lifesaving. Menhinnitt is a trainer with the Royal Life Saving Society in the Northern Territory and has been teaching swimming to children, and older and disabled people for decades.

Windmill Theatre founding Director Cate Fowler has has been made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her service to the performing arts, particularly in the areas of children’s theatre and education.

Graham Smith has been recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to surf-lifesaving - which includes co-founding the Aldinga and Normanville Surf Life Saving clubs in South Australia - and service to the community, including 22 years volunteering for the Country Fire Service.

We have undoubtedly missed someone in the industry who was recognised in the Queen's Birthday honours. Please contact leisure@ausleisure.com.au to advise.

1st June 2015 - CRICKET WORLD CUP ORGANISATION RECOGNISED IN QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS LIST

10th June 2013 - INDUSTRY FIGURES RECOGNISED IN QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS