Julian Leeser (Berowra, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The Order of Australia is awarded to Australians who have made a significant contribution to the lives of their community or who have made outstanding achievements in their given fields. Since it was introduced by Queen Elizabeth II in 1975, the hard work and achievements of more than 30,000 Australians have been recognised and celebrated. I'm always delighted to have the chance to reflect on the hard work, service and diverse accomplishments of Australians. Several Berowra constituents were recently inducted into the order, and today I'd like to take the opportunity to recognise their service and offer my congratulations.

Dr Philip Thompson of Kenthurst was honoured for his outstanding achievements in biomedical science research, as well as for his service as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Among his many achievements, Dr Thompson was a founding member of the Australian Cleft Lip and Palate Association, and he helped establish the Monash University medical school in Malaysia.

Dr Peter Cowie of Beecroft was honoured with the Order of Australia medal for his service to the chiropractic profession. Dr Cowie has operated the Westleigh Chiropractic clinic for many years, and through his expertise and dedication he has made an important contribution to our community.

I want to recognise the work of Mr Rosario Colosimo of Annangrove, who was awarded an Order of Australia medal for his many years of community service, including founding and managing the Hills District community trust and the Memento Hospitality Group.

Mrs Meredith Anne McVey of Asquith was honoured for her service to the Medical Benevolent Association, supporting doctors across New South Wales.

Congratulations go to Mrs Betty Stevens, who was awarded the Order of Australia medal for her extensive service to the community, including decades of service to Girl Guides Australia, Mothers' Union Australia, the Woodlands Retirement Village, the Hornsby Shire Historical Society, the National Council of Women and the Cheltenham ladies bowling club.

In the military division, Chief Petty Officer Benjamin Keith Bryan was honoured for his service in our Navy. He took roles as the high-voltage authorised person in control, and as the electrical maintenance work centre manager on HMAS Adelaide, and his performance was considered outstanding.

Also for service to the Navy, Warrant Officer Scott James Shipton was honoured for his dedication to training and mentoring Navy personnel. He contributed to the implementation of the revised patrol boat crewing strategies and the restructure of the mine warfare and clearance diving force.

While he's not a resident of Berowra himself, I'd like to acknowledge Mr Phillip Heath, the headmaster of Barker College, who shapes the lives of many young people in my electorate. Mr Heath was recognised for his devoted service to education and, in particular, for creating greater opportunities for Indigenous students.

Finally, I want to acknowledge and recognise Jeanette Farrell of Northmead, who, again, isn't a Berowra local but who worked for my predecessor Philip Ruddock and, through him, for the people of Berowra for many years. Congratulations to Jeanette, and thank you for all you've done with your hard work in serving the people of Berowra.

All these people have made a significant contribution to our nation. Some are local heroes and others have had an impact globally. All of them are inspirations, and I'm very pleased that their achievements have been acknowledged in this particular way.