Illawarra's Quiet Achievers Honoured with OAM Medals for Community Service
The Illawarra region has celebrated a remarkable group of residents in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list, with numerous individuals receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division. These honourees come from diverse backgrounds but share a common thread: a deep-seated commitment to volunteering their time and talents to build stronger, more supportive communities.
Veterans' Advocate and Community Pillars Recognised
Among the recipients is Anthony Cox from Dapto, a former National Serviceman who served with the 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam. For the past fifty years, Mr Cox has dedicated himself to supporting returned servicemen through organising reunions, fostering mateship, and providing crucial emotional and psychological support for veterans and their families. He expressed that his service experience gave him a profound understanding of war's consequences, motivating him to help others heal through shared fellowship.
Roger Downs of Figtree has volunteered his legal expertise to numerous community organisations over decades, alongside a forty-year career with Kells Lawyers in Wollongong. He has served on boards including the NSW Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network and Warrigal Care, describing his charity work as a way to give back to the welcoming Illawarra community.
Diverse Contributions Across Multiple Sectors
Kenneth Hutt from Berry, a former police officer and business owner, has been instrumental in Rotary's global polio eradication campaign, aiming to raise significant funds annually. Jennifer King of Corrimal received her OAM for forty years of service to the scouting movement, where she has held various leadership roles and supported youth development.
Ian Mackay of Figtree has contributed extensively through executive roles with the Lions Club, Illawarra Cancer Carers, and local sports clubs, while also participating in cancer research at the University of Wollongong. His community involvement began in childhood with cubs and scouts, continuing for thirty-nine years with the Figtree Lions Club.
Longstanding Service in Education, Arts, and Emergency Response
John Weeks of Thirroul was honoured for his service to secondary school education, having served as headmaster at several institutions including Knox Grammar School and Illawarra Grammar. He emphasised the privilege of working with young people and the importance of recognising educators nationwide.
Margaret Snelling of Kiama has been recognised for her lifelong involvement with hockey clubs since the 1950s, alongside fifty years as a Meals on Wheels delivery driver and scripture teacher. Ross Taylor of Wollongong received his OAM for decades of service to surf lifesaving, still patrolling at age eighty.
Shane Wicks of Gerringong was acknowledged for his work with emergency response organisations, including the RFS and SES, while Reginald Young of Wollongong was honoured for contributions to the electrical trade industry, promoting business ownership among tradespeople.
Youth Mentorship and Specialised Honours
Anthony Zuiderwyk of Bulli has dedicated fifty years as a scout leader, finding reward in guiding youth during crucial developmental years. Gary Laker of Stanwell Park received the Australian Fire Service Medal for forty-nine years of service with the RFS, responding to major emergencies including the Black Summer fires.
Peter Roach of Burradoo was recognised for his commitment to education and community support, serving on school boards and assisting abuse survivors through redress processes. Peter Leo Papps of Bundanoon, an Olympic shooter, has promoted safety and mentorship in his sport for over seventy years.
John Bicknell of Bargo has worked with troubled students for twenty-one years, drawing on his challenging childhood to support others. David Blakeley of Wilton was honoured for his work with the Cancer Patients Foundation's Look Good Feel Better program, enhancing the wellbeing of those undergoing treatment.
Each recipient expressed humility and surprise at the recognition, often attributing their achievements to teamwork and community support. Their stories highlight the profound impact of sustained volunteerism across the Illawarra region, inspiring others to contribute to societal betterment.
