Entertainers, business leaders, and advocates have been recognised in the King's Birthday Honours list, with 949 recipients receiving accolades for their contributions to the nation. Among the highest honours, the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) was awarded to philanthropist Janet Calvert-Jones, former Tasmania premier William Hodgman, Professor William Rawlinson, former Democrats leader Natasha Stott Despoja, and mathematician Terence Chi-Shen Tao.
The youngest recipient is Sarah Ward, 34, while 106-year-old volunteer Florence Drury is the oldest to be acknowledged. The list includes 703 people in the General Division of the Order of Australia.
Christine Holgate: Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
Business leader Christine Holgate, chief executive of Team Global Express, was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to business through executive roles. Holgate, a Collingwood supporter, plans to celebrate at a pub watching the Magpies. Reflecting on her career, she noted the support of colleagues and mentors, including former Barbados Prime Minister Owen Arthur, who taught her humility in leadership. Holgate also acknowledged the controversy over Cartier watches during her time at Australia Post, saying it made her stronger.
Rove McManus: Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
Comedian Rove McManus was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to broadcast media, entertainment, and the community. He kept the honour secret from all but his wife and daughter, though a timing mix-up with his mother led to a humorous delay. McManus plans a low-key barbecue in Perth to celebrate. He said the honour coincides with his stand-up tour and symbolises a body of work aimed at making people feel better.
James Valentine: Member of the Order of Australia (AM) (Posthumous)
The late James Valentine was awarded an AM for significant service to media, music, and children's literature. His nomination arose from a joke at his living wake, where Governor-General Sam Mostyn was present. Valentine received the honour days before his death in April, moved that his dedication to kindness was recognised. His wife, Joanne Corrigan, highlighted his gentle nature and commitment to fundraising.
Natasha Stott Despoja: Companion of the Order of Australia (AC)
Former South Australian senator and gender equality advocate Natasha Stott Despoja was awarded the AC for service to prevention of family violence, gender equity, and human rights. She served as commissioner of the Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence and was re-elected to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women. Stott Despoja is a lifelong advocate for making gender equality the norm.
Janet Calvert-Jones: Companion of the Order of Australia (AC)
Philanthropist Janet Calvert-Jones received the AC for eminent service to philanthropy, the arts, medical research, and children and youth. She credited her mother, Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, for instilling a sense of duty. Calvert-Jones has been involved with the Good Friday Appeal, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, and the Tapestry Foundation. She takes pride in her family's contributions to community causes.
Edwina McCann: Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
Edwina McCann, editorial director of Vogue Australia, Vogue Living, and GQ Australia, was awarded an AM for service to journalism, arts governance, and the fashion industry. She noted meeting Queen Mary of Denmark as a highlight. McCann serves on boards including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Australian Ballet Foundation, emphasising the importance of curiosity and giving back.
Katie Allen: Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) (Posthumous)
Former federal Liberal MP Dr Katie Allen received the AO posthumously for service to medical research in pediatric allergies and gastroenterology, and to parliament. Her husband Malcolm Allen said her greatest achievement was her family. Allen pioneered liver cell transplants and mentored many women. She was known for her integrity and evidence-based approach.
Fran Kelly: Officer of the Order of Australia (AO)
Broadcaster Fran Kelly was awarded the AO for her journalism career and advocacy for social justice, equality, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Kelly, who hosted RN Breakfast for 17 years, expressed gratitude to colleagues who influenced her. She believes in contributing to national discussions to help Australia grow as a nation.
