Julia Banks (Chisholm, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Australia Day some very special Chisholm residents were acknowledged as part of our nation's honours system. Professor David Kissane was made a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to psychiatry, particularly psycho-oncology and palliative medicine. Professor Rhys Jones was made a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to mechanical and aerospace engineering and to education. Dr Margaret Gale was made a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to children who are blind or who have low vision, and as an educator. The following Chisholm residents received the Medal of the Order of Australia: Ms Susan Natoli for services to canoeing, including significant contributions in international and national competitions; and Mr Walter Van Nieuwkuyk for services to the performing arts, including as executive producer of numerous iconic productions.

I'd also like to acknowledge Whitehorse Young Citizen of the Year Michaela Clare-Cover, and the Whitehorse Community Achievement Award recipient, David Knowles, who were both recognised for their outstanding contribution to the community with Australia Day civic awards. Finally, I recognise and congratulate the Eastern Gymnastics Club in Box Hill South, who received, for the second year in a row, the Whitehorse sports and recreation trophy for outstanding and supportive inclusion of gymnasts of all ages and abilities. I join all Chisholm residents in congratulating these deserving award recipients, and I look forward to hosting them at an upcoming morning tea in their honour.