January 1 - 31, 2025: Issue 638

 

Australia Day 2025 Honours List

Australian Honours: Dr Cameron John Bell of Ingleside, Deborah Killelea of Newport, Lisa Blair of Warriewood, Lynette Foley of Collaroy, Martin Meredith of Collaroy, Peter Owens of Terrey Hills.

Council's recognitions include; Kevin Lee of Belrose, Ian Hocking of Bilgola Plateau, Saskia Rundle Trowbridge of Narrabeen, Chris Turnbull of Clontarf, Glenn and Clare Wysman of The Link Church, Lifeline Northern Beaches Book Fair Volunteers

Council's Outstanding Community Service Awards 2025 include; Nicholas Chambers of Cromer, Roland Davies of North Manly, Bruce Davis of Curl Curl, Vipul Jajal of Dee Why, Laurelei Moore and sister, Gay McLindin of Dee Why, Leanne Shanahan of Warriewood, and Mel Thomas of Clontarf.

January 26 2025

Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, the Governor-General of Australia, today announced Honours and Awards for 732 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service. 

“Congratulations to all of the 2025 Australia Day honours recipients. Thank you for your work of care and service to our nation.

“To read recipient stories is to be reminded that contribution to communities across the country, underpinned by care, kindness, respect and love, is what matter most to all Australians, in every sphere of life. Recipients embody the best of us, and we are grateful to all of them.

“This year, we mark the 50th anniversary of Australia’s honours system. We have a wonderful opportunity over the next 50 years of our honours and awards to reflect our generous, successful and modern Australian society.

“To all Australians, nominating and honouring our fellow Australians is a meaningful way of saying, as a nation, thank you. 

“To all the remarkable 2025 Australia Day honours recipients today we celebrate you.” 

In addition to the 457 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (6 AC, 23 AO, 108 AM and 320 OAM), today’s Honours list includes: 

  • 25 recipients of awards in the Military Division of the Order of Australia (1 AO, 11 AM and 13 OAM) 
  • 196 Meritorious awards 
  • 3 Distinguished and 51 Conspicuous awards

Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at the Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

This list also includes 24 Australians recognised for their contribution in support of Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These individuals will also be included in an ongoing and permanent COVID-19 Honour roll. 

Numerous Olympians and Paralympians have been recognised, as have those ‘For service to conservation and the environment’ and those who have served the furthering of their professions, whether in the health, arts, architecture and numerous other fields for the betterment of Australians as well as many overseas. However, the most seen citation throughout the hundreds of pages of honours listed is ‘for service to the community’.

Local Honours this year are listed below.

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division

Dr Cameron John Bell, Ingleside 

For significant service to gastroenterology medicine as a clinician and administrator.

Royal North Shore Hospital

  • Director of Endoscopy and Senior Staff Specialist, since 1994.
  • Head, Gastroenterology Department, 2005-2012.
  • Medical Practitioner, since 1983.

Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney

  • Senior Lecturer in Medicine, current.
  • Fundraiser, Lawrence Penn Chair of Bowel Cancer.
  • Student Supervisor, current.

Medicine and Education - Other

  • Gastroenterology Consultant, North Shore Private Hospital, current.
  • Gastroenterology and Hepatology Consultant, Southern Highlands Private Hospital, since 1994.
  • Fellow, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, since 1990.

Gastroenterological Society of Australia

  • Leader, National Endoscopy Training Initiative, since 2009.
  • Member, since 1998.

Bowel Cancer Australia

  • Former Chair.
  • Founding Director.
  • Member, Clinical Advisory Group, National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, since 2014.

Cancer Council Australia

  • Working Party Deputy Chair, Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Prevention, Early Detection and Management of Colorectal Cancer, 2017. 
  • Working Party Chair, Clinical Practice Guidelines for Surveillance Colonoscopy, 2011, and 2019.

Awards and Recognition include:

  • Distinguished Service Award, Gastroenterological Society of Australia, 2017.

Dr. Bell AM, accepting his 2017 award

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Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division

Mrs Deborah Anne Killelea, Newport 

For significant service to the community through charitable organisations.

Be Centre

  • Co-Founder, since 2008.
  • Chair, since 2008.

The Charitable Foundation

  • Co-Founder, since 2001.
  • Director, since 2001.

Charity - Other

  • Founding Member, Green Cross Australia.
  • Benefactor, Sydney Peace Foundation.

Nursing

  • Recreational Therapist, Far West Hospital, Manly, 1970-1980.
  • Nurse, Manly District Hospital, 1969-1970.

The Charitable Foundation is just one of the group of charities and organisations founded by the Killelea family. 

Deborah Killelea co-founded TCF in 2001 to formalise the family's philanthropy. Deborah's passion has always been helping children. Her entire professional career has been devoted to working with aboriginal children, children with physical disabilities and behavioral problems. In 2008 Deborah set up the Be Centre, which is a leading mental health charity providing Play Therapy for children aged 3-12 years of age. It is dedicated to early intervention, stopping cycles of harm and helping children heal from difficulties and trauma, so that they can thrive.

Deborah is actively involved in both the Be Centre and many other TCF projects.

Mrs Deborah Anne Killelea AM. Photo: TCF

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Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division

Miss Lisa Blair, Warriewood 

For service to sailing.

Sailing

  • Owner and Skipper, Climate Action Now, since 2015.
  • Co-Skipper, d'Albora Climate Action Now, Melbourne to Hobart Yacht Race, 2019.
  • Skipper, Climate Action Now, Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, 2017.
  • Master, Climate Action Now, Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, 2015.
  • RYA Instructor, Pacific Sailing School, since 2013.
  • Crew Member/Joint Winner, Gold Coast Australia, Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, 2011-2012.

Sailing Records

  • The first person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around New Zealand, Auckland to Auckland, 2024.
  • The fastest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted on a monohull from Sydney to Auckland, 2024.
  • The fastest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica, 2022.
  • The first woman to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted and fastest solo voyage on a monohull around Australia, 2018.
  • The first woman to sail solo, unassisted around Antarctica with one stop, 2017.
  • The first all-female team to race Sydney to Hobart in 16 years, Skipper, Climate Action Now, 2017.
  • The first double-handed female team (with Jackie Parry) to complete the Melbourne to Hobart Yacht Race, 2019.

Climate

  • Partner, Australian Institute of Marine Science and Integrated Marine Observing System, since 2021.
  • Data Assistant/collector and Researcher, Bureau of Meteorology, current.

Australian Geographic

  • Author, Facing Fear, 2020.
  • Adventurer of the Year Award, 2022.
  • Spirit of Adventure Award, Australian Geographic, 2017.

Awards and Recognition include:

  • Offshore Sailor of the Year, NSW and ACT Sailing Awards, Australian Sailing, 2022.
  • Alumnus of the Year, Southern Cross University, 2021.
  • Seamanship Award, The Ocean Cruising Club, 2017.

Lisa Blair is an Australian solo sailor who holds multiple world records. She is also an advocate for action against climate change, which she promotes through her Climate Action Now project.

During Blair's second circumnavigation of Antarctica, her yacht Climate Action Now was equipped with several scientific devices such as an Ocean Pack Race Research Unit, which measures CO2, salinity levels, temperature and barometric pressure. She also collected samples to be used to study the level of microplastics in the water, and has been working in partnership with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) to study those samples.

Lisa's project, Climate Action Now, encourages individuals to think about how they can contribute towards a better future for our planet. The hull of her yacht of the same name, Climate Action Now, is designed from post-it notes that reflect actual messages from supporters and fans about what they are doing to be more sustainable.

Blair is the author of the book Facing Fear, published in 2021 by Australian Geographic, which details the story of her first attempt at sailing solo around Antarctica.

The documentary Ice Maiden (2024) is about her first solo sail around Antarctica. The tour edit version of the documentary was one of seven short films in the 2024 Ocean Film Festival World Tour, touring Australia and New Zealand.

More at: lisablairsailstheworld.com

Lisa Blair's Storm Masterclass

Join Lisa Blair for an unforgettable 'Storm Masterclass' where she shares her invaluable offshore skills and risk management expertise. Experience the thrill of her first-person account navigating through 15-meter waves and 80 knots of wind alone in the Southern Ocean. Lisa will impart crucial risk assessment and disaster management knowledge to ensure you and your crew stay safe on any ocean voyage.

As part of this Masterclass, you'll have the unique opportunity to board Climate Action Now. Lisa will guide you through the boat, offering hands-on experience and insights.

Presented by Lisa Blair

Topics Covered: Weather Wave Formation Knockdowns Preparation Drogue Types Sea Anchors Heaving To Q&A Session

Where: RMYC Broken Bay at Newport
When: Saturday 22 Feb at 2pm
Tickets: $50 per person

Lisa Blair OAM. Photo: RPAYC

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Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division

Mrs Lynette Foley

For service to swimming as an official and administrator.

Swimming NSW

  • Volunteer, Multi Class Events, Swimming NSW, since 2000.
  • Volunteer and Technical Official, Swimming Metro North East, since 2010.

Warringah Amateur Swimming Association

  • Co-Patron, current.
  • Life Member, since 2015.
  • President, 2015-2017.
  • Vice President, 2018-2021.
  • Past Member, Race and Carnival Committee and Selection Sub-Committees.
  • Member, Selection Committee for Technical Officials, since 1980s.
  • Special Olympics Swimming, coach, technical official and general volunteer.

Warringah Aquatic Swim Club

  • Volunteer and Technical Official, current.
  • Past Committee Member.
  • Past Vice President and WASA Delegate.
  • Member, Warringah Aquatic Centre Hall of Fame, 2019.

Collaroy Women's and Associates Swim Club (disbanded in 2014)

  • President, 1989-2014.
  • Member, Executive Committee, c1982-2014.
  • Life Member.

Lyn was inducted into the Warringah Aquatic Centre’s Hall of Fame in 2019. The Council said then:

Lyn’s involvement in swimming saw her intrinsically involved in swimming with those with a disability. And Lyn has rarely missed attending and volunteering at Swimming NSW Multi Class events since 2000.

As a technical official, Lyn has volunteered at school, zone, State, Swimming NSW, as well as the 2000 Olympics and Paralympics. She always makes herself available to help and assist.

In recent years, Lyn served on the committee of Warringah Aquatic Swim Club as its Vice President and as the Delegate to Warringah Amateur Swimming Association (WASA).

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Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division

Mr Vivian Martin Meredith, Collaroy 

For service to rugby league as an administrator.

National Rugby League

  • Manager, Affiliated States League, 2016-2020.
  • Coaching and Development Manager, 1996-2015.
  • Member, Development Council, 2000-2012.
  • Chair, Australian Junior Kangaroos Selection Committee, 2005-2011.
  • Member, Women in League Committee, 2007-2011.
  • Member, Development Retention Committee, 2007-2012.
  • Member, Participation Review Committee, 2009-2012.
  • Member, Australian Women's Rugby League Board, 2009-2011.

New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL)

  • Member, Management Committee, 2008-2012.
  • Board Member, NSW Women's Rugby League, 2007-2011.
  • Member, Underage State Selection Committee, 2000-2012.
  • Member, Policy Committee, 1996-2012.
  • Member, Coaching Council, 1996-2011.
  • Development Officer, 1990-1996.
  • Former Executive Officer, Junior Rugby League Committee.
  • Former Member, Development Managers Committee.

Australian Wheelchair Rugby League

  • Chair, since 2017.
  • Board Member, since 2016.

Australian Rugby League Commission

  • Tour Manager, Affiliated States Touring Representative Team to Fiji, 2018.
  • Tour Manager, National Wheelchair Squad, Rugby League International Federation World Cup Tournament, UK, 2017 and 2022.
  • Manager, Junior Kangaroo's Team, 2007.
  • Manager, Prime Minister's XIII team to Papua New Guinea, Australian Rugby League, 2005.

Narrabeen Sharks Rugby League Football Club

  • Committee Member, Junior Rugby League, 2009-2012.
  • Coach, Under 19s, 2011-2012.
  • Coach, Under 17s, 2010-2011.

Manly-Warringah Rugby League Football Club

  • Development Officer, 1982-1989.
  • Player, 1977-1987.

Rugby League Other

  • Board Member, Physical Disability Rugby League Australia, 2021-2022.
  • Life Member, New South Wales Junior Rugby League, since 2006.
  • Life Member, New South Wales Rugby League Sports Federation, since 2008.
  • Player, Halifax Rugby League Football Club, UK, 1987-1988.

NSW Sports Federation (now Sport NSW)

  • Former Board Member, mid-late 1990s.
  • Life Member, current.

Martin played with the Sea Eagles from 1979–87. He was Player #266 and played 48 Games. Position: Five-Eighth, Centre. NSWRL Debut: April 1, 1979 (Rd 2).

Photo: Manly-Warringah Rugby League Football Club

Martin has been the Chairman of Wheelchair Rugby League for 5 years and a board member since 2016. He has over 40 years’ experience in Rugby League having been involved in various roles including Participation Manager at the NRL, Development Manager at the New South Wales Rugby League  and Inaugural Development Officer at Many Warringah Rugby League Football Club.

He has a Diploma in Teaching (Bachelor of Education - BEd, Physical Education Teaching and Coaching Australian Catholic University) and is currently High-Performance Coach Coaching (NRL) and recently completed the NRL Wellbeing Course. 

He has served as a Board member for Physical Disability Rugby League Australia, and previously served as a Director on the Sport NSW Board. 

Those who have worked alongside him for years say Martin brings great  passion for the game and dedication to making Rugby League a fully inclusive sport across the whole community.

Australian Wheelchair Rugby League chair Martin Meredith OAM  and Skyring CEO David Mardell, who commenced sponsoring the Australian Wheelaroos in 2022. Photo: © National Rugby League

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Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division

The late Mr Peter William Owens, Terrey Hills 

For service to the community through emergency response organisations.

New South Wales Rural Fire Service

  • Chair, Southern Border Branch, Rural Fire Service Association, since 2017.
  • Mentor, Rural Fire Service Secondary School Cadet Program, Corowa High School, since 2020.

Warringah/Pittwater Rural Fire District

  • Group Captain, 2003-2006.
  • Group Officer, 1996-2006.
  • Reserve Group Officer, 1984-1996.

Coal and Candle Rural Fire Brigade

  • Captain, 1989-1996.
  • Deputy Captain, c1980s.
  • Former Vice President.
  • Former Treasurer.
  • Former Equipment Officer.
  • Member, 1964-1996.

Awards and Recognition include:

  • National Medal and two clasps (35 years), 2023.

Vale – Peter Owens 

Current and former members of Coal and Candle RFB and the wider RFS Northern Beaches community have heavy hearts on learning of the recent passing of our much loved and respected member Peter Owens on 26th June 2024. Our deepest condolences go out to Colleen, Shane and Timothy and their families.

Peter joined the RFS in 1964 for two years as a member of the Coal and Candle Brigade, involved from day one as the brigade callout officer. Peter rejoined the brigade in 1983 and was appointed Equipment Officer the following year; a position that he held until 1989. In 1985 he was also appointed to the position of Deputy Captain and held that until 1989 when he was elected Brigade Captain, a position he held until 1996. 

In January 1994 Peter was Captain of Coal and Candle RFB during one of the worst NSW fire seasons in memory. One of Peter’s activities included leading a crew assigned the task of defending the marina at Akuna Bay containing more than three thousand litres of Super fuel when it was directly threatened by advancing fire.

Peter served the then Warringah/Pittwater District as a Reserve Group Officer from 1984 to 1996, Group Officer from 1996 to 2006 and Group Captain from 2003 to 2006. In January 2003, Peter was involved with Jindabyne Task Force as the Guthega Division Commander following which he went to Canberra as Division Commander for Belconnen.

Over the years, Peter also held positions on various committees, such as the Warringah Pittwater Councils' Advisory Committee, the Rural Fire Service Association, Volunteer Welfare Fund, the District Constitution Review Committee, the OH&S Committee and the District Disciplinary Committee.

In 2015 Peter moved to Yarrawonga and joined Mulwala-Tarramia RFB where his commitment to the RFS and also to Coal and Candle RFB continued. Peter was awarded the National Medal, second clasp last year and the RFS 40 years long service medal in 2022. Peter was a generous mentor, giving up his time to share his wealth of knowledge and experience with future generations of firefighters. We will all miss his quietly spoken, calm, kind and caring nature. Rest in Peace.

Coal & Candle Rural Fire Brigade, July 16, 2024

 

Australia Day Honours: Council’s Recognitions

Each year the Council recognises community members and organisations that contribute to improving the amazing place we live in.

While the recipients do not expect recognition and are humble about their efforts; these awards go a little way to thank these selfless people and organisations.

This year’s recipients have saved lives, raised money for lifesaving and emergency services, promoted fitness and continually encouraged community spirit.

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said all nominees and the award recipients were impressive.

“This year we received so many deserving nominations which only emphasises the amazing accomplishments of this year’s recipients.

“There is no doubt we have some extraordinary people on the Northern Beaches. Every year I am amazed by the committed and passionate people that surround us.

“Each is being recognised for their major contribution to our community through volunteering their time, experience, leadership and dedication to others.

“We heartily congratulate this year’s award recipients and thank those who took the time to nominate and recognise them,” Mayor Heins said.

Citizen of the Year 2025 

Kevin Lee of Belrose 

Kevin has devoted many hours to the Narrabeen Beach Surf Life Saving Club through beach patrols, various positions within the Club and educating other members. He is also the co-convenor of the Narrabeen Beach Challenge Ocean Swim and has organised numerous beach carnivals. Kevin devotes countless hours to his passion for the sea and keeping the public safe.

Senior Citizen of the Year 2025 

Ian Hocking of Bilgola Plateau

Ian is a dedicated volunteer and leader at NSW SES Warringah Pittwater unit. As the Deputy Unit Commander, Ian conducts staff training, fosters a culture of readiness and professionalism. His selfless dedication ensures residents receive swift and effective support during emergencies.

Young Citizen of the Year 2025 

Saskia Rundle Trowbridge of Narrabeen

In 2024 Saskia braved perilous conditions below Warriewood headland to rescue 3 youths. Showing remarkable composure, leadership and quick thinking to organise her I.R.B crew while she jumped in the swirling ocean to swim the youths to the boat and back to the beach for first aid and saving their lives.

Sportsperson of the Year 2025

Chris Turnbull of Clontarf

Chris has run himself into the Guinness World Records with the fastest journey on foot across Australia, from Perth to Sydney. He completed the 3,865-kilometre journey in 39 days, 8 hours and 1 minute, beating the previous record by 4 days. During the run Chris delivered motivational talks for local groups and running clubs. He continues to promote an active and healthy lifestyle and a willingness to assist others with their sporting endeavours.

Community Event of the Year 2025

Carols by the Lake – The Link Church

The annual favourite, Carols by the Lake has been operating for 20 years. Organised by The Link Church of North Narrabeen, each year the event attracts around 10,000 locals to celebrate the festive spirit. The audience is encouraged to donate to the Link Community Care’s essential programs including funding food relief and emergency support for the local community. Below are the pastors, Glenn and Clare Wysman, of The Link Church

Community Group of the Year 2025

Lifeline Northern Beaches Book Fair Volunteers

Locals flock to Lifelines’ renowned Book Fairs but few think of the countless hours the 100 dedicated volunteers contribute to ensuring the success of these popular fundraisers. It takes many months to collect, sort and price books, DVDs, CDs, and games for the events. Each Fair raises significant funds for the vital mental health and crisis services Lifeline provides to our community.

Outstanding Community Service Awards 2025

Nicholas Chambers – Cromer – Nicholas has shown great leadership at Cromer Cricket Club and through his enthusiasm for the game he has increased the junior participation. He organises and runs “Come & Try” events and fosters teamwork, inclusion and sportsmanship.

Roland Davies – North Manly – Through his organisation, Emu Parade, Roland has dedicated his time to environmental conservation. Roland has hosted over 60 clean-up events from Shelly Beach to Palm Beach attracting over 2000 participants.

Bruce Davis – Curl Curl – Bruce loves everything to do with sailing. His passion and leadership have been of great benefit to Manly Yacht Club. The junior program is now thriving and continues its significant involvement with Sailability (sailing with a disability) thanks to Bruce.

Vipul Jajal – Dee Why – A meditation trainer, Vipul has offered over 100 free in-person and 250 online meditation sessions in the last 12 months focusing on mental health, stress reduction and holistic wellness.

Laurelei Moore and sister, Gay McLindin – Dee Why – These identical twins rise early every morning to clear Dee Why beachfront of dangerous refuse like plastic, fishing lines and food scraps ensuring a safer environment for beachgoers and local wildlife.

Leanne Shanahan – Warriewood – Since 2018 Leanne has facilitated a monthly support group in Narrabeen for parents and siblings who have lost a child. Leanne has created a space for families to grieve together and gain hope for the future.

Mel Thomas – Clontarf – Mel is passionate about preventing domestic violence, delivering mums and daughter workshops in Dee Why attracting over 100 participants. She has also raised over $100,000 enabling her to provide free self-defence workshops in local schools.

All Photos by Karen Watson for the Northern Beaches Council