Queensland Greats Awards 2024

Best known as the former editor of the Fraser Coast Chronicle, Nancy retired from journalism on 2 July 2009 after 40 years. Working for the Fraser Coast Chronicle for 21 years as editor, makes Nancy Australia’s longest serving regional editor. One of her career highlights was being awarded a United Nations Media Peace Award for a project incorporating the language and history of the traditional owners of the Fraser Coast, the Butchulla people, into the Chronicle.

Using her skills as an author to promote Maryborough, Nancy published a book about Maryborough's Mary Anne, the first steam train to be built in Queensland. Nancy is patron of the Proud Marys, a group which promotes Maryborough as the birthplace of Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers.

Nancy has also been recognised for her efforts in having a memorial of Maryborough war hero Duncan Chapman, built in time for the Anzac Centenary celebrations.

After sitting in the stands as a nine-year-old, watching the arena events, in 1992, Angus Lane OAM fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) Chief Ring Announcer. The role of the ring announcer is to commentate and educate and from 1992 to 2007, Angus presided over the daytime activities and competition in the main arena at the show. After taking a break in 2008, he returned to the Ekka in 2014.

Angus has supported the Queensland show movement for more than 30 years ensuring the very best in professional announcing is provided wherever he is present. His knowledge of show competitors and exhibitors, particularly in the horse and beef sections is greatly admired and appreciated by the show movement nationally.

In 2013 Angus received an Order of Australia Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honour’s list for services to agricultural shows. Angus has been involved in many community groups and was named Queensland Father of the Year in 2002.

Father Mick Lowcock OAM came to Mount Isa in the early 1990s as Parish Priest and soon became a household name for the way in which he involved himself in the local community.

Through the Catholic Church, Father Mick set about establishing North West Queensland Indigenous Catholic Social Services Limited (NWQICSS) as an organisation which today employs more than 70 people of which more than 80 per cent are Indigenous. The group provides assistance and numerous programs to those in need, mostly Aboriginal people and their families. NWQICSS enjoys a strong community profile and actively engages the community it serves.

In addition, Father Mick assisted in creating the Jangawalla Kitchen which consists mainly of volunteers who provide daily meals to the homeless and people at the local police watch house. Father Mick is a tireless community worker and multicultural advocate for outback Queensland.

Following the abduction and murder of their son Daniel in 2003, Bruce and Denise Morcombe committed to making communities a safer place for children. The establishment of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation in 2005 highlighted their goal to educate young people about how to stay safe in physical and online environments and support young victims of crime in their often harrowing journey to recovery.

While some people would have been destroyed by losing a child, Bruce and Denise have embraced the desire to ensure other children don’t suffer Daniel’s fate, that parents and carers are informed and that young people themselves know the signs and what do to do if they find themselves in potentially dangerous situations.

Bruce and Denise’s personal commitment to the safety of children was recognised when they were named joint Queensland Australian of the Year recipients in 2012 and by the Medal of the Order of Australia awarded to them in 2013. They are also Child Safety Ambassadors, and through the foundation have delivered important safety education to Queensland and the nation.

Dr James Morton AM is an accredited specialist in Haematology-Oncology, Medical Director at Icon Cancer Care and Senior Specialist in Leukaemia and Bone Marrow Transplant Services at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.

Above all, he is a passionate advocate for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and is the Founder and previous Chair of the AEIOU Foundation for children with autism, a not-for-profit organisation. His vision is to see every young child with ASDs in Australia able to access high quality, evidence-based early intervention.

Dr Morton was a Board Member at the Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland from 2000–2008, where he created and initiated the World’s Greatest Shave campaign, which continues as a successful fundraising initiative to this day. Dr Morton was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2015, in recognition of his services to both children with autism and in oncology.

Betty Taylor has actively worked to prevent violence against women for almost 30 years, having held a number of positions, including Founding Manager of the Gold Coast Domestic Violence Prevention Centre; forming the Tavan Institute; and being an independent mediator to women being sent to Wolston Park Asylum from the 1950s to 1980s. Betty has contributed to education and training in domestic violence responses through publishing papers and training manuals and a media kit to assist journalists reporting domestic violence.

In 2004, Betty returned from a Churchill Fellowship study tour of the United States where she researched domestic violence death review boards. She played a key role in the formation of the Domestic Violence Death Review Action Group in Queensland and in petitioning the government for the establishment of the Domestic Violence Death Review Board, which she has been a member of since July 2016.

Betty has chaired the Ministerial Domestic and Family Violence Council and during that time initiated Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Week, which later became Domestic Violence Prevention Month. The Red Rose Foundation was launched in 2016 and Betty was named as the Chief Executive Officer.

PCYC Queensland is a registered charity providing youth and community programs, services and facilities. Working alongside the Queensland Police Service since 1948, the organisation’s vision is building safer, healthier communities through youth development.

PCYC Queensland’s three pillars of youth development, crime prevention and community engagement underpin all programs and activities and focus on encouraging social inclusion, addressing whole of community needs and positively impact local communities.

PCYC also supports a range of Queensland Government priorities such as giving children a great start, creating employment opportunities, keeping Queenslanders healthy and keeping communities safe.

Born in Cunnamulla, Richard (Darby) McCarthy OAM went on to become one of the nation’s best jockeys during the 1950s and 1960s, riding more than 1000 winners in Australia, Asia and Europe.

In 1984 he began a new life as a trainer and set up a training centre at Toowoomba’s racecourse. In 1990 he was once again re-licenced as a jockey until he retired from racing in 1991. Most riding and Aboriginal sports histories concluded that it was not until the 1960s with the phenomenal success of Darby McCarthy that the barriers for Aboriginal riders were broken.

Confirmation of his strength of character is that Darby achieved such a successful and lengthy racing career in the face of so many challenging and difficult circumstances. Given his professional riding record across Australia and his achievements in racing as a jockey, his ability was extraordinary.

Darby set up an apprenticeship scheme in Toowoomba in 1984 where he would take in and teach young Aboriginal kids the art of horsemanship. He was a member of the University of Southern Queensland, Elders and Valued Persons Advisory Board (EVPAB) that provides high-level strategic advice to the Vice-Chancellor and an elder of the Toowoomba Murri Court.

Darby McCarthy's outstanding contribution to Queensland Racing has been honoured with his induction into the Queensland Racing Hall of Fame in 2004 and he was awarded a Medal of Order of Australia in 2016.

Professor Julie H Campbell AO is a cell biologist recognised as a world leader in the field of smooth muscle biology. Julie’s experience has taken her to various medical institutes with her scientific research recognised with a Wellcome Australia Medal in 2005, election to the Australian Academy of Science in 2000, Centenary Medal in 2003 and an Order of Australia in 2006. Her research achievements include the discovery of smooth muscle plasticity and its relevance to vascular disease, as well as development of ‘grow-your-own’ vascular grafts from cells of bone marrow origin using the abdominal cavity as a bioreactor.

Hugh Cornish AM is a television veteran who pioneered television in Queensland and was the first face to appear on Queensland screens in 1959. His contributions to the television industry, the arts and the community have been many and varied throughout his career. Among his achievements, Hugh has been a recording artist, radio announcer, television presenter and executive producer. He is also a committed fundraiser and charity worker, who has raised millions of dollars through telethons and supported many other charities that service Queensland’s disadvantaged.

Dr Richard Lewandowski is one of Australia’s most respected cranio-facial surgeons who specialises in rebuilding faces. In 1999, Richard and his wife founded the Australian chapter of Operation Smile, a worldwide not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing reconstructive cranio-facial surgery to children and young adults in developing countries. Operation Smile has brought children from the Philippines, Vietnam, New Guinea and Timor to Brisbane for life-changing operations.

William Robinson AO is a talented landscape painter working in the European tradition, and for decades trained, taught and exhibited almost annually. He won the Archibald Prize for Portraiture in 1987 and 1995, and the Wynne Prize for Landscape in 1990 and 1996. His work was the subject of a major retrospective that travelled from Queensland Art Gallery to the National Gallery of Australia in 2001 and is one of the few Australian artists to have been collected by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. During his long teaching career, William guided generations of artists at a range of Brisbane art colleges.

The late Nick Xynias AO BEM was co-founder of the Ethnic Communities Council of Australia and one of Queensland’s most prolific voices for ethnic diversity. Across several decades Nick was involved in numerous boards and advisory councils, and established and maintained avenues for individuals from diverse backgrounds to access services in Queensland. Nick became increasingly involved with aged care issues at an advocacy and policy level, and determined that nursing homes and hostels should be sensitive to the needs of different cultural groups. This led him to establish the first multicultural nursing home in Australia.

Professor Peter Doherty AC is an advocate for biomedical research, science and education. With a degree in Veterinary Science and PhD in Pathology, Peter is an accomplished veterinarian. At the John Curtin School of Medical Research in Canberra, Peter worked on the nature of the cellular immune defence. For this work he was jointly awarded the 1996 Nobel Prize for Physiology and Medicine.

David Malouf AO is a multi-award winning author and internationally recognised as one of the world’s finest and most versatile contemporary writers. Since his first collection of poetry in 1962, he has also published novels, short stories, opera libretti and a play. Some of his novels include Johnno, An Imaginary Life, The Great World, Remembering Babylon and Antipodes, a collection of stories. David has been awarded the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize, the IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, and the Queensland and Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards, as well as being shortlisted for the Booker Prize.

Angelo Puglisi is one of Australia’s most respected vignerons. Angelo oversees most of the operations of Ballandean Estate and is ultimately responsible for all vineyard processes. Angelo is a former Churchill Fellowship Scholar who undertook training in winemaking and grape growing in Europe. He has become a member of the Queensland Hall of Fame (Queensland wine industry) and won many awards for his contribution to the wine industry.

The late Dr Evelyn Scott AO was an Aboriginal advocate who had a long and distinguished involvement with the Indigenous community spanning more than 30 years. Evelyn campaigned for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights at both state and national levels and also played a key role in establishing Aboriginal legal services, housing societies and medical services throughout Queensland.

The late R.M. Williams AO CMG was the manufacturer of reliable bush gear and clothing that is now recognised as typically Australian. Author and patron of poets, painters and handcrafters, R.M. was largely responsible for the resurgence of whipmaking in Australia. As a keen horseman, R.M. founded monthly magazine, Hoofs and Horns, and was the driving force behind the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame at Longreach. He also helped construct the attraction’s first building, being an accomplished stonemason and bricklayer.

Professor Ian Frazer AC is a medical researcher and clinical immunologist who founded The University of Queensland’s Diamantina Institute. For more than 20 years Ian has been researching the link between papilloma viruses and cancer, seeking ways to treat these viruses in order to reduce the incidence of cancer. Ian has developed vaccines to prevent and treat cervical cancer—within a generation these vaccines have the potential to virtually eradicate the risk of cervical cancer. This vaccine has revolutionised women’s health across the globe.

The late Dr Jim Kennedy AO CBE (C) was a business leader who served on the boards of many major Australian public companies including the Commonwealth Bank, Qantas, Australian Stock Exchange, Suncorp and Santos. He conducted a number of commissions and enquiries for governments including the Australian, Queensland and Northern Territory tourism industries and chaired several government statutory bodies, including the Australian Postal Commission, Queensland Investment Corporation, Queensland Tourist and Travel Corporation, and the Queensland Corrective Services Commission.

Greg Norman AO is one of Australia’s most successful sporting stars. Better known as ‘The Great White Shark’, Greg has won 91 professional golfing events around the world including 2 British Open Championships. He is also CEO of Great White Shark Enterprises, a multinational company operating across a range of ventures, from golf course design to wine and food, and sports apparel. Greg also founded the Greg Norman Foundation with a vision to develop and nurture young Queensland golfers, including Karrie Webb and Adam Scott, providing a springboard for their careers.

The late Dr Margaret Olley AC remains one of Australia’s most respected artists and philanthropists. Margaret won numerous prizes for her work and her paintings are in art galleries throughout Australia, including Queensland Art Gallery and National Gallery of Australia in Canberra. In 1997 she was declared a national treasure and awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by The University of Queensland. Margaret was also awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Visual Arts by the University of Sydney.

Geoffrey Rush AC is an internationally acclaimed, multi-Oscar nominated actor who won an Academy Award for his astonishing performance in Shine. Geoffrey began his career in Brisbane in the 1970s, working to establish himself as a serious stage actor, primarily with the Queensland Theatre Company. Soon after, he scored the role of a lifetime, playing piano prodigy David Helfgott in Shine. Shine took Geoffrey to Hollywood and was the start of a major international film career.

Mater Misericordiae Health Services is a compassionate service provided to the sick and needy. More than 100 years ago, a group of nuns from the Sisters of Mercy Order recognised a desperate need for a public health service in Brisbane and opened a small hospital in a former residential home. This became the Mater Hospital, one of the largest health care providers in Australia. The Mater is now a world-class group of hospitals with achievements including the introduction of Brisbane’s first blood transfusion service during World War II, ground-breaking development of services for HIV/AIDS patients in the 1980s, and the opening of the first private children’s hospital in Australia.

The late Bill Brown OAM was an Australian test cricketer, teammate of the late Sir Donald Bradman, and a member of the legendary Invincibles. He made his debut for New South Wales against Queensland at the Gabba in 1932 and was Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1939. Bill would have undoubtedly played more test cricket if it were not for the war. In June 2000, he was awarded the Order of Australia for service to cricket as a player, selector, coach and administrator and for his involvement with the cricket charity Lord’s Taverners.

The late Dr Tony Gould AM was a driving force behind the development of Queensland’s performing arts for decades. In 1979, Tony was named Director of Queensland’s Performing Arts Complex and, under his direction, the complex became internationally known for its contribution to social justice performing arts programs, arts education activities and special initiatives. Following this role, Tony left another legacy as Artistic Director of Brisbane Festival for five years. Queensland’s dynamic arts industry thrived under Tony’s leadership, vision and through his development of artists and new companies.

Terry Jackman AO is one of Queensland’s leading business identities and has been an influential figure in the growth of the state’s tourism industry. Terry worked at Birch, Carroll and Coyle Limited, Brisbane for 20 years with the last 5 as the company’s Chief Executive. In 1989, Terry formed Pacific Cinemas Pty Ltd, one of the largest privately owned cinema exhibition groups in Australia. In Terry’s role as the Chairman of Tourism Queensland, he played a central role in the success and growth of Queensland’s tourism industry.

Dr Aila Keto AO is an environmental activist and recognised authority on world heritage. Aila helped achieve the landmark closure of the rainforest timber industry in North Queensland in 1988 and the subsequent end of all rainforest logging on Queensland public land in 1994. Aila also achieved three successful world heritage listings—the Wet Tropics, K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) and the Central Eastern Rainforest Reserves of Australia. In 1988 the listing of Queensland’s Wet Tropics as a world heritage site saved 1.5 million hectares of land, then in 1999 another 1.25 million hectares of Queensland hardwood forests were preserved through the historic South East Queensland Forest Agreement.

Rod Laver AC MBE is an international sporting star who left school at age 15 to pursue a career in tennis. His maiden international triumph came during his first trip abroad in 1956 when he won the US Junior Championship at age 17. Rod’s career boasts 20 major titles in singles, doubles and mixed doubles. Rod turned professional in 1962 and during a 23-year career that spanned the amateur and open eras, he won 47 professional titles in singles and was runner-up 21 times. Rod has been inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the Sports Australia Hall of Fame.

Uncle Bob Anderson OAM is a well-respected Queensland unionist and Aboriginal Elder renowned for furthering and protecting the rights of workers, and maintaining and promoting the reconciliation process. Uncle Bob served as a union delegate and state organiser for the Building Workers Industrial Union and has been recognised as an honorary member of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union. Uncle Bob also has a long and distinguished history of community service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He was a member of various councils and served as chairperson of several organisations.

The late Professor Joe Baker AO OBE was a marine pharmacology pioneer and world authority in natural resource management. He made significant impacts in the development of sustainable resource management for waterways and land in Queensland and at an international level. Joe played rugby league for Brisbane and Queensland, and was a founding board member of the Queensland Academy of Sport where he assisted in the development of sports science and sports medicine services.

The late Diane Cilento was one of the first Queensland actresses to establish an international career in film, television and theatre. Her career began at 17 when she was awarded a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Starring in a long series of films, Diane was nominated for an Academy Award as Best Supporting Actress for the film Tom Jones and received the New York Critic’s Award playing Helen of Troy on Broadway. She performed many classic roles on television and on stage and had a distinguished career as a director and writer.

Sister Angela Mary Doyle AO is a humble community worker serving more than 60 years as a school teacher, registered nurse and hospital administrator. Sister Angela Mary is a member of the Order of the Sisters of Mercy, which founded the Mater hospitals in 1906, and was Sister Administrator of the three Mater public hospitals for 21 years before being appointed Senior Director of Health Services at the Mater. She served on the Council of Griffith University and the Queensland Health department’s committee on AIDS. During her years at the Mater she has worked tirelessly to provide the quality care and welfare for which the Mater hospitals are known.

The late Ted Smout OAM was one of Queensland’s most celebrated Anzac heroes. He was Australia’s oldest digger, recognised by many generations for his valuable contribution to Queensland. A World War I veteran, Ted was honoured with the highest honour bestowed by the French Government, Legion d’Honneur, and numerous other medals including the Medal of the Order of Australia.

The late Ashley Cooper AO was an Australian tennis legend who won eight Grand Slam titles over his professional career. Ashley also made a significant contribution to the development of tennis in Queensland by providing support and mentorship to help guide youths through their tennis careers. A celebrated singles and doubles player, Ashley was inducted into the Member Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1987, Member International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1991 and Member Tennis Australia Hall of Fame in 1996.

The Honourable Leneen Forde AC was Queensland’s first female governor. She played a leading role in advancing the social and economic welfare of Queenslanders and contributed to enhancing the status and interests of women. In addition to her work as a community leader, Leneen has served on numerous boards including Scouts Australia, Queensland Ballet, National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame, Alzheimer’s Association of Australia, Foundation for Survivors of Domestic Violence and the Queensland Supreme Court Probate Rules Review Committee.

Doug Hall AM is a renowned art gallery director who expanded Queensland Art Gallery’s (QAG) international focus and developed a strong engagement with Asia, especially through the Asia-Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art. Doug conceived the idea for the Gallery of Modern Art and oversaw its development and opening in December 2006. Doug was director of QAG from 1987 until April 2007. Prior to this, he had been director of two regional galleries in Victoria and served on a range of state and federal cultural organisations.

The late Emeritus Professor John Hay AC was a university leader who made a number of exceptional contributions to Queensland including the development of a series of major research institutes and centres. John was a fellow of many academic institutions, was awarded honorary doctorates and chaired national and international boards on university learning and teaching, research, libraries, art galleries, philanthropy, performing arts, humanities, bio-sciences and medical research. He published widely in English and Australian literature, comparative literature and education.

Sir Leo Hielscher AC is an applied economist who has been recognised as one of the key figures responsible for transforming Queensland’s economy over the past 40 years. Leo has more than 50 years’ experience in the areas of government, banking and finance, domestic and global financial markets, and superannuation and as an independent company director. Leo has held a number of distinguished positions, with considerable experience at board level in both public and private sectors. He has also been honoured with a Knight Bachelor, a Companion in the Order of Australia, an Eisenhower Fellowship and an Honorary Doctorate from Griffith University.

SLSQ is Queensland’s peak beach safety and rescue authority and one of the largest volunteer-based community service organisations in Australia. SLSQ was formed in 1930 and includes more than 59 affiliated clubs with more than 30,000 members. SLSQ also includes 42 supporters clubs with more than 200,000 members and is affiliated with Surf Life Saving Australia and the International Life Saving Federation. SLSQ’s mission is to provide excellent beach safety and lifesaving services, water safety advocacy, education and sport. Queensland’s surf lifesavers have saved more than 120,000 lives (since recording began in 1930) and each summer saves more than 4000 lives.

Professor Perry F Bartlett AO FFA is the inaugural Director of the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) and holds the Foundation Chair in Molecular Neuroscience at The University of Queensland. His extraordinary scientific contribution has revolutionized many aspects of modern neuroscience and his visionary leadership has established QBI as one of the world’s leading neuroscience Institutes. Professor Bartlett’s pioneering discoveries include his detection and subsequent characterization of neural stem cells that reside in the adult brain that have the capacity to produce new neurons throughout life. This discovery has transformed neuroscience research, and its importance continues to grow as Professor Bartlett and others show that brain functions, like learning and memory, are in part regulated by the production of new neurons. Drawing on these exciting discoveries, recent results have indicated that stimulation of stem cells in order to produce new neurons may overcome the cognitive loss that may lead to dementia during ageing.

Mr Clive Berghofer AM is one of Australia’s greatest philanthropists. He has donated $80 million to-date and has publicly pledged to “give away a lot more before I’m finished”. Mr Berghofer currently donates an estimated $90,000 each week to charities, community and sporting groups, and emergency services. His generosity, particularly in the fields of health and emergency services, regularly saves lives, not just in Queensland, but worldwide. Mr Berghofer’s support of crucial health and community services, including drug rehabilitation services and a hospice for the terminally ill has improved the lives of some of Queensland’s most vulnerable citizens. Despite leaving school at the age of 13 and struggling with dyslexia for his whole life, Mr Berghofer became a highly successful property developer and through a lifetime of hard work went on to become one of Australia’s wealthiest individuals. Mr Berghofer is committed to bettering his state and his beloved local community of Toowoomba.

Professor Peter Coaldrake AO is currently the Chair of the Board of the Queensland Performing Arts Trust. He was previously the Vice-Chancellor of Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and a prominent international and national university leader. He spent his early childhood in a remote Aboriginal settlement and is well aware of the opportunities that come with education. Professor Coaldrake has been a driving force in extending those opportunities to all areas across Queensland, and particularly to those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He was Chair of the Board of the university sector’s peak group, Universities Australia, and has played a leading role in national and state policy development on higher education and research that also extended into the international arena. Under Professor Coaldrake’s leadership, QUT now features prominently in global university rankings. He has built extensive local and international networks across government, industry professionals and the wider community and was recognised for his ability to unite and lead people to bring about change.

Mr Phil Dickie was born in the bayside area of Brisbane in 1955. He began his career in journalism with the student newspaper at the Australian National University in Canberra while earning a degree in forestry, politics, economics, sociology and linguistics. Soon after returning to Queensland, Mr Dickie commenced work at The Courier-Mail returned to Queensland and in 1986 began an inquiry into Brisbane brothel ownership. This mushroomed into a series of articles that identified police, up to assistant commissioner level, with involvement in corruption and organised crime. Together with an ABC Four Corners program, these articles forced the government to call an inquiry that ran for two years and heard revelations of both police and political corruption. The inquiry changed the policing and political landscape in Queensland and across Australia. For the work leading to the Fitzgerald inquiry Mr Dickie received Australian journalism's highest award, a Gold Walkley, and wrote the bestselling book The Road to Fitzgerald, long a staple of investigative journalism courses around Australia and since digitalised as part of the State historical record by the Queensland State Library. Mr Dickie contributed to the post-Fitzgerald reforms as Special Advisor to the Chair of the Criminal Justice Commission before returning to investigative journalism in 1994.

Emeritus Professor Cindy AM FQA Shannon is a descendent of the Ngugi people from Moreton Bay. As a passionate advocate for Indigenous health and education, Emeritus Professor Shannon has played a key role in the development and implementation of Indigenous health policy both in Queensland and nationally. She was the Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Engagement at The University of Queensland, and guided the development and implementation of Australia’s first degree-level program that specifically targeted Aboriginal health workers. She has advised government and non-government groups on health and education issues, and serves on a number of advisory boards, including as Chair of the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation, and the Queensland Ministerial Advisory Committee on Sexual health. She has also been a key player in creating a focus on urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations and contributed to the establishment of the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health. Her true passion lies in enabling people from all backgrounds to achieve their potential. She is known for her extraordinary commitment to mentoring students, employees, and colleagues, and continues her tireless work to enhance conditions for all.

Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) is Queensland’s largest performing arts company and the State’s only professional symphony orchestra. In 2017, QSO celebrated its 70th anniversary as the centre of music-making in Queensland, presenting more than 180 live performances each year to more than 1.6million people. The Orchestra operates from its base in South Bank, Brisbane and employs more than 100 administration staff and musicians, in addition to many guest soloists and artists. QSO’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level has earned it the reputation as one of the country’s leading performing arts companies. QSO regularly supports many of the state’s performing arts companies, including Opera Queensland, Queensland Ballet, Brisbane Festival and Queensland Music Festival. As a champion of music education, each year the Orchestra tours regional Queensland and presents a range of specialised programs including masterclasses, workshops, and professional development for teachers, connecting with more than 30 000 people, from pre-school to university level.

The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) is the peak body for local government in Queensland and a not-for-profit association setup solely to serve the state’s 77 councils and their individual needs. In recent times LGAQ were at the forefront of disaster recovery as a result of Tropical Cyclone Debbie. The LGAQ coordinated and supported local councils as they prepared for, were impacted by, and are now recovering from Debbie. LGAQ have been advising, supporting and representing local councils since 1896, allowing them to improve their operations and strengthen relationships with their communities. LGAQ are being recognised as an honorary recipient of the 2017 Queensland Greats Awards for their tireless contribution to Queensland.

The late Eddie Koiki Mabo was born on Mer (Murray) Island in 1936. Mr Mabo was exiled from the Island when he was 16 years old and worked across Northern Queensland and the Torres Strait before settling in Townsville with his young family in 1962. Following his settlement in Townsville, Mr Mabo was elected president of Yumba Meta and established Australia's first Black Community School. In 1982, Mr Mabo and four other Islanders initiated legal action claiming customary ownership of their land on Murray Island, but their claim to land was rejected. Rather than appeal, Mr Mabo decided to proceed with the hearings before a full bench of the High Court. Before the Court's decision to overturn the doctrine of terra nullius (land belonging to no-one) was delivered in 1992, Mr Mabo had fallen ill and passed away. On the night of his burial, islanders performed the sacred Malo dance in his honour.

Wayne Bennett AM is one of Australia’s greatest sporting coaches, known for his courage, humility and commitment. Wayne played representative football for Queensland and Australia between 1971 and 1973, and began coaching in 1976. He established countless records with the clipboard and whistle, before sealing his legendary status with six premierships for the Brisbane Broncos and four State of Origin series victories and a draw. His sporting success has also been recognised in his selection as Australian Rugby League coach several times over.

The late Dr Clem Jones AO is a Brisbane icon as the city’s longest serving mayor, with his contribution to the development of Brisbane and its citizens unsurpassed. A surveyor by profession, Clem was Lord Mayor of Brisbane from 1961 to 1975. His tenure saw the capital grow from a conservative country town to a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Clem’s civic service continued after his retirement from politics through membership of numerous civic, sporting and professional bodies.

The late Olga Miller, known as Auntie, was an internationally acclaimed author and consultant on Aboriginal culture and traditions. Born in Maryborough, Auntie was an Elder of the Butchulla nation that borders Mount Bauple, Burrum Heads and Double Island Point. The Legends of Moonie Jarl was one of the first books ever authored by Aboriginal people in Australia and Auntie created the illustrations using her own style. She spent her time educating non-Indigenous Australians about pre-European history and Aboriginals on their own cultural background.

Emeritus Professor Lawrie Powell AC is one of Queensland’s most celebrated medical researchers. He led international investigations into liver disease and cancer for many years and his research has made significant contributions to the understanding of inherited liver disease and cirrhosis, especially haemochromatosis. Lawrie was instrumental in the development of Brisbane’s Comprehensive Cancer Research Centre and has received numerous national and international awards in recognition of his research achievements.

Professor David Tudehope AM is a distinguished physician and author. As a former Director of Neonatology at the Mater Mothers’ Hospital and Professor in Neonatal Paediatrics at The University of Queensland, he spearheaded neonatal research in Queensland. David has saved many young lives and encouraged others to explore new neonatal technologies. He has chaired a number of paediatric committees and inspired many doctors through the Neonatal Perinatal Training Committee of the Australian College of Paediatrics.

Allan Border AO, or AB as he is more affectionately known, is a former Queensland and Australian cricketer. As the 38th captain of the Australian team, Allan captained the side on 93 consecutive occasions and still retains the world record for the number of consecutive Test appearances at 153. Allan played 98 first-class matches for Queensland, in addition to his 156 Tests for Australia, scoring 7661 first-class runs for the state at an average of 57.17. As captain, Allan rebuilt the national side through one of the toughest periods in history and claimed the nation’s first World Cup in 1987. Allan led Australia to the 1989 series win in England when they reclaimed the Ashes 4-0, the first time since 1934 that Australia had regained the Ashes in England. Allan scored 11,174 Test runs for Australia, a world record at the time, and was an inaugural inductee into the International Cricket Council Hall of Fame.

The Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO has broken down countless barriers as an advocate for human rights of women and families. Perhaps best known as Governor of Queensland and then becoming Australia’s first female Governor-General, Ms Bryce was the first woman to be appointed as a faculty member of The University of Queensland Law School. With a lifetime of public service, Ms Bryce has been a member of the National Women’s Advisory Council and Queensland Director of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. In 2015, Ms Bryce completed the landmark Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an End to Domestic and Family Violence in Queensland report that shone a light on the complex cultural problem of domestic and family violence in Queensland.

Dame Quentin also showed her commitment to reform by chairing the Domestic and Family Violence Implementation Council. She has been an inspirational figure for many decades, especially for Queensland women. She has long championed the rights of all Australians and sought to redress injustice wherever she found it.

The late John Curro was the founder and Director of Music for the Queensland Youth Orchestra and had conducted the Queensland Youth Symphony since it began in 1966. In demand as a conductor and tutor for professional and youth orchestras and festivals, John conducted many of Australia’s professional orchestras, as well as many opera and ballet seasons in Australia. John’s guest conducting appearances include the London Virtuosi, Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra, Australian and Bavarian Youth Orchestra, Bangkok Symphony Orchestra, and Principal Guest Conductor with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. He was bestowed an Honorary Doctorates from the university of Queensland and Griffith University and received many prestigious awards including the Member of the Order of Australia and Member of the British Empire.

The late Lloyd McDermott (Mullenjaiwakka) was an inspirational athlete, barrister and philanthropist. This trailblazing Waka Waka man was Australia’s first Indigenous athlete to play for the national rugby union team, the Wallabies. Lloyd’s sporting and academic ability saw him awarded a scholarship to a prestigious Brisbane school. While in the midst of his sporting career, he went to study law at The University of Queensland and was admitted to the Bar in New South Wales in 1972, eventually becoming Australia’s first Indigenous barrister. Throughout his career, Lloyd devoted his time and energy to promoting opportunities for young Indigenous men and women, as founder of the Lloyd McDermott Rugby Trust. He also established the Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development Team, in association with the Australian Rugby Union, to introduce the game to young Indigenous men and women across Australia and foster their personal development.

Mal Meninga AM is one of Queensland’s greatest sporting legends. Named as one of the best rugby league players in the game’s 100 year history in Australia, Mal was also named in the Queensland and Australian rugby league teams of the century. Mal has excelled as a player and coach at every level of the game, in a career that spans almost 40 years. Between 2006 and 2015, he coached the Queensland State of Origin team, winning nine out of ten series while in charge. Known as ‘Big Mal’, he has used his profile to support, encourage and mentor young players, Indigenous youth, his own Australian South Sea Islander community and the development of rugby league in Queensland. He has generously contributed both time and money to numerous charities, educational institutions and sporting associations over the years.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Queensland is the state’s oldest, largest and leading animal welfare charity, dedicated to improving the lives of all domestic, farmed and native animals in Queensland. With a dedicated army of staff and volunteers, RSPCA Queensland rehomes and reunites more animals than any other organisation in Australia. The society has nine animal care centres, 23 full-time inspectors and 10 ambulance officers, a domestic veterinary surgery, a wildlife veterinary surgery, an animal training centre and an education department that includes a Mobile Education Unit (EMU). The EMU travels through the State and beyond, reaching over 100,000 people a year through school visits and appearances at country shows. RSPCA Queensland also has a foster care program with over 1500 foster parents on its books and a Pets in Crisis program that looks after pets of people who have suffered from domestic violence.

In 2015, more than 45,000 animals passed through the care of RSPCA Queensland.

George Roberts CBE was a pioneer and visionary for North Queensland. George’s contributions to Townsville and Queensland, as a regional activist, were many, including his vision for Townsville as a regional economic centre at a time of centralised government. George was Townsville’s Deputy Mayor from 1963–67 and oversaw the construction of James Cook University from 1964. In the midst of developing the university, George committed himself to another lifelong project, the development of a suitable regional hospital for the chronically ill and aged. In 1969, George became Chair of the Anglican Diocese of North Queensland, the project’s steering committee. He selected the site shortly thereafter for what would become Good Shepherd Hospice for the chronically ill. George was an extraordinary fundraiser, known ‘to turn lead into gold’ and, for 22 years, brought together the Anglican churches of Townsville, Ayr, Home Hill, Bowen, Mount Isa, Ingham, Cloncurry and Charters Towers to raise funds for the hospice.

Dr Betty Byrne Henderson AM is a Queensland businesswoman and highly esteemed member of the community who is dedicated to service in the fields of women’s health and business. Betty’s business interests span more than 40 years as owner and governing director of The Byrne Group of Companies, a family-owned Ford dealership at Chermside and Kedron. Since 1995, Betty has pursued her business, community, volunteer and philanthropic interests while simultaneously directing her property and investment companies. Many iconic Queensland institutions have benefited from her philanthropic spirit.

Dr George Chapman AO has made a significant contribution to the Queensland community and is well respected in the business world, as demonstrated by his appointments as chairman of Telecasters North Queensland, Ten Network Holdings, TAB Queensland, Cairns Port Authority, Chapman Group and Skyrail Pty Ltd. He was a substantial founding shareholder in the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and founder of the Cairns Regional Development Bureau. He has also held numerous board of trustee positions for organisations such as the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

Graham Jackson OAM is a successful Queensland businessman and known for having one of the best business brains in the country as founder of Loloma Jewellers and former Townsville Enterprise Limited chairman. He was appointed director of the Queensland Small Business Development Corporation in 1979 and deputy chairman from 1988 to 1993. During his more than 50 years in Townsville, Graham has been involved in a range of community development work and gives generously to community causes.

Wally Lewis AM is a former rugby league footballer and coach, and widely regarded as the greatest rugby league player of all time. Wally is best known for his State of Origin performances, spearheading Queensland’s dominance in the competition throughout the 1980s. Nicknamed ‘The King’ and ‘The Emperor of Lang Park’, Wally represented Queensland in 31 State of Origin games and was captain for 30 of these games. Since retiring from the game, Wally has pursued a career as a newsreader and commentator.

Kerry O’Brien is one of Australia’s most distinguished and respected journalists with numerous Walkley Awards for excellence in journalism, including the Gold Walkley. Kerry was editor, host and interviewer for the ABC’s 7.30 Report for 15 years, following 6 years as host and interviewer for the Lateline program. He has also been a presenter and interviewer for the ABC’s flagship investigative current affairs program, Four Corners. Kerry began his career in Brisbane’s Channel Nine newsroom in 1965 and has an honorary doctorate in Creative Industries from Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

SES was established in 1975 by the Queensland Government, evolving from the former Queensland Civil Defence Organisation following the organisation’s response to the 1974 Brisbane floods. With approximately 6800 active SES members in almost 350 groups throughout Queensland, volunteers are involved in a wide range of disaster and emergency-related operations. In December 2010 and January 2011, SES volunteers across the state successfully responded to calls for assistance for the widespread flooding across Queensland. Less than a month later, Cyclone Yasi struck in north Queensland and once again SES groups across the state mobilised to assist with the clean-up, highlighting the staggering volume and immeasurable work SES undertakes.

The late Honourable Mike Ahern AO contributed to Queensland through his participation in politics, business, philanthropy and community service. Mike was appointed National Party leader in 1987 and served as Queensland Premier for two years. He then demonstrated innovation and entrepreneurship in his shift to business leadership where he advanced Queensland’s interest in technology, energy and financial development. In the social arena he encouraged a culture to support philanthropy, providing a sustainable income stream for Queensland charities.

The late Honourable Sir Llewellyn (Llew) Edwards AC was a Queensland business leader who contributed to many fields. Initially qualifying as an electrician, Llew worked in the medical profession as a doctor; in government as the Member for Ipswich, the Minister for Health and Queensland Deputy Premier and Treasurer; and in business as a director of the successful family electrical firm R.T. Edwards & Sons. Llew also contributed to the field of education through his role as Chancellor of The University of Queensland.

Professor Michael Good AO is a scientist and research director who pioneered the development of vaccines for malaria and streptococcus A, which causes rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease and afflicts large numbers of Indigenous Australians. Michael’s work stands to save the lives of thousands of people, not only in Queensland, but throughout the world. Michael has also helped build and maintain the international reputation of the Queensland Institute of Medical Research.

Ruth Hegarty is an Elder, author and activist who actively pursued social justice for Indigenous people and has participated in a number of government advisory groups. Ruth has established, operated and supported a range of Indigenous organisations and services. Ruth is also a published writer and known for works that document her personal history as one of the Stolen Generation.

The late Dr James Edward (Eddie) Liu OBE OAM was a humanitarian and preservationist internationally recognised as a prominent Chinese community leader in Australia and the driving force in the preservation of Chinese cultural heritage in Queensland. Known as the ‘Father of Chinatown’, Eddie was instrumental in developing Brisbane’s Chinatown precinct from a run-down inner city area into a vibrant, multicultural environment attracting millions of tourists. He was a tireless advocate for the less fortunate and the driving force behind many noble initiatives such as looking after the aged, arranging life saving organ transplants for children of under-privileged families, sponsoring gifted students and promoting Chinese language and Asian history through Queensland universities.

The University of Queensland (UQ) is one of Australia’s premier learning and research institutions, internationally renowned for its highly awarded teaching staff, world acclaimed researchers and superior campus facilities and services. As Queensland’s oldest university, 2010 marked UQ’s centenary celebrations. In the 100-plus years since the university was established, it has delivered teaching and research not only to the people of Queensland, but also from across Australia and the world.

The late Ian Brusasco AO was a business and sports leader with extensive experience as chairman and director across a range of industries. Ian sat on many boards such as WorkCover Queensland, Gladstone Port Corporation, Foodbank, Port of Brisbane Corporation, Brisbane Strikers, 4TAB and 4KQ. Ian also served as an alderman at the Brisbane City Council for 14 years. Through these positions, Ian contributed significantly to the development of Queensland.

Pearl Duncan is an education crusader who has dedicated her life to helping increase Aboriginal participation in education. Her outstanding contribution to education, Indigenous issues and academic research over a period of 55 years is unparalleled. Pearl has made acclaimed contributions to research in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies and represented her community at the highest government levels.

Matthew Hayden AM is considered one of the greatest cricket players of all time. Matthew has shown persistence, determination and dedication throughout his Australian cricket career, as well as off the field. He has not only made a name for himself as a champion of the sport nationally and internationally, he has also shown remarkable community spirit through his very public fundraising efforts for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and his visits to children’s hospitals.

Professor Ross Homel AO is the Foundation Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Griffith University in Brisbane and Director of the Griffith Institute for Social and Behavioural Research. His research and community leadership have made a significant contribution to Queensland’s reputation for research excellence, the development of social policy and justice reform, and the lives of families in Queensland’s disadvantaged communities.

The late Dr Thancoupie Gloria Fletcher James AO played a vital role in promoting and enhancing the image of Aboriginal culture through art and education. Thancoupie exhibited her ceramic artworks nationally and abroad, receiving great praise. She established educational facilities and programs for children and is remembered as an inspiration for Indigenous people.

RFDS of Australia is dedicated to providing vital health care to anyone travelling, working or living in Australia. Established in 1928 in Cloncurry by the Reverend John Flynn, the RFDS provides care for more than 270,000 Australians each year. In Queensland, the RFDS’s emergency retrieval service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and has expanded to provide regular transfers of patients to interstate hospitals for lifesaving surgery. A broad range of essential health care services are also delivered to rural and remote communities including Indigenous health, child and family health, and women’s health services.

Philip Bacon AO is a well-regarded art dealer, patron and philanthropist. He established Philip Bacon Galleries in 1974, which plays an educational and commercial role in the thriving Brisbane art scene. The gallery has established itself as Brisbane’s leading commercial gallery and attracted clients and artists from around the nation. Philip is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most successful commercial gallery dealers and has dedicated his service to Queensland through roles on boards of cultural authorities, universities and foundations.

Bill Bristow AM is a humanitarian who founded the charity Angel Flight Australia. Each year Angel Flight helps thousands of rural Australians in medical and financial need through the provision of free, non-emergency flights. In addition to previous roles including Managing Director of BCM Partnership, Bill has devoted a great deal of his time and energy establishing and maintaining Angel Flight. He has demonstrated passion and persistence as his charity continues to grow.

Kev Carmody is a renowned singer, songwriter and educator who has worked tirelessly as an Aboriginal advocate promoting awareness of Indigenous issues through his music and academic achievements. After releasing several critically acclaimed albums, Kev was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Southern Queensland in 2008 and inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2009. Kev continues to inspire people with his passionate songwriting and storytelling, and his years of service as an educator, writer and producer.

Dr Robyn Rodwell is an acclaimed medical scientist who has worked tirelessly in support of the Queensland Cord Blood Bank at the Mater Hospital. Through research, development and facilitating extensive community fundraising and support, Robyn’s unwavering determination has benefited patients in Queensland and around the world.

Anthony Ryan established Eddie’s Street Van and Paddie’s Van to assist the homeless, street kids and elderly of Brisbane. Commencing with two days a week, the programs have grown to provide assistance to the community every day. Anthony has also reached beyond Australia’s shores to South Africa with the development of a foundation to assist underprivileged children. Anthony has networked and devoted his talent and time to empower others to reach out to those in need.

Blue Care has grown from one Blue Nurse in Brisbane back in 1953 to Australia’s largest not-for-profit provider of community and residential aged care, and one of Queensland’s largest employers. Blue Care’s staff and volunteers make more than 2.5 million visits every year to the frail, aged, people with a disability and those needing help after leaving hospital. As well as providing nursing, personal and allied health support, domestic assistance and social support, Blue Care has a range of in-home and centre-based respite, nursing homes, palliative care and carer support programs.

William (Bill) Hauritz AM is the driving force behind Queensland’s internationally acclaimed Woodford Folk Festival. The festival is the biggest community-driven cultural event in Australia, injecting millions into the Queensland economy annually. It is acclaimed for its inclusivity, optimism and exploration of ideas, welcoming more than one million interstate and overseas visitors, and has received multiple national and state tourism awards. Under Mr Hauritz’s leadership the festival has extended its reach to regional Queensland communities, engaged more than 47,000 volunteers, helped build arts sector capacity both locally and across Queensland, created opportunities for more than 30,000 artists while fostering new generations of talent, strengthened relations with Woodfordia’s Traditional Owners and is a model of environmental innovation in the festival sector.

Gail Ker OAM is the CEO of Access Community Services Ltd. For more than 20 years Ms Ker’s vast industry experience and expertise in the Australian multicultural, humanitarian and community sectors has seen her change countless lives for the better. Under Ms Ker’s leadership, Access has grown from a one room youth employment service in Logan City into one of Australia’s leading organisations in the provision of settlement, employment, training, youth support, housing and social enterprise services for migrants, refugees and Australian born clients. Recently, Ms Ker launched her innovative 99 Steps to end Domestic Violence program. Since commencing in June 2017, the program has provided domestic and family violence counselling and legal support to more than 50 women from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Associate Professor Henrietta Marrie AM is a Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Elder. After first lecturing at Griffith University in Brisbane, Ms Marrie returned to Cairns in 1991 to help develop the Cairns College of Technical and Further Education's Aboriginal ranger training program and in 1994 she became the Cairns Coordinator for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Participation, Research and Development Centre at James Cook University. During this time Ms Marrie influenced thousands of Indigenous students to aspire and achieve great results through expanded educational opportunities. In 1997 Ms Marrie became the first Indigenous Australian to successfully gain a professional position with the United Nations. In 2003 she became the first Indigenous Australian to be employed within a U.S. based Philanthropy in Palo Alto California. Ms Marrie was also listed as one of the Westpac and Australian Financial Review 100 Women of Influence in 2014 for her work in public policy. In January 2018, Ms Marrie was named a Member of the Order of Australia General Division for her significant service to the community as an advocate for Indigenous cultural heritage and intellectual property rights, and education. Ms Marrie is currently an Associate Professor within the Office of Indigenous Engagement, Central Queensland University, Cairns.

David Nilsson AM is a retired professional baseball player and one of the most successful and influential players in Australia’s baseball history. In 1999, Mr Nilsson purchased the first Australian Baseball League to keep the reality of professional baseball alive in Australia. Mr Nilsson represented Australia at the Olympics in 2000 and 2004, captaining the team to seventh place in Sydney before leading it to the historic silver medal in Athens. Mr Nilsson has been the head coach of the Brisbane Bandits professional baseball team in the Australian Baseball League since 2014 and has led the team to three consecutive and historical championships. He is a great supporter of baseball in Australia, investing in the sport and serving as an administrator and role model for young players.

Professor Matthew Sanders AO FASSA is the founder of the iconic Positive Parenting Program, known as Triple P. The program is a world leader in its approaches to parenting and family interventions. Hundreds of thousands of families across Queensland and Australia have already benefited from the program that has been translated into 22 languages and used in 28 countries by more than 76,000 accredited practitioners. Professor Sanders’ expertise is highly valued by policy makers all around the world and has advised many institutions including the Queensland Health Paediatric Advisory Panel, Education Queensland, National Suicide Prevention Council, US Ministry of Health, the Council of Europe, and the World Health Organisation. Professor Sanders continues to be one of the world’s most highly cited parenting researchers.

The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland is a non-profit organisation serving and supporting the most disadvantaged and underprivileged within our community. The Society provides a wide range of support in 209 locations across the state including food and emergency assistance relief, housing and homelessness support, child and family support, aged, mental health and disability services, and the widely-known Vinnies shops. With their good works supported by the 9900 members and volunteers located in all of Queensland including regional and remote areas, the Society enables communities to be supported, and their people to develop new skills and give back. Every day, including some of the darkest times in Queensland’s history such as recent natural disasters, the Society provides life-changing support to local communities. By giving a hand up, and not just a hand out, the Society provides hope to those who need it most.

The late Graham ‘Butch’ Lenton, former Mayor of Winton Shire Council, spent more than 20 years within local council pursuing his unique vision for the region in which he was born and raised. Mr Lenton had a strategic vision for the Winton community including the rebuilding of the Waltzing Matilda Centre and the introduction of geothermal power to the region. When the original Waltzing Matilda Centre was destroyed by a fire in 2015, Mr Lenton was determined to build a newer and better centre for the community. Mr Lenton worked tirelessly to secure funding for the rebuild of the iconic museum and to highlight its importance to the nation’s tourism industry. The centre reopened on 20 April 2018 and will be powered by geothermal energy, another of Mr Lenton’s legacies to the state.

William Barton, a Kalkadunga man, is a distinguished performer of extraordinary musicality who has achieved global recognition as a world-leading didgeridoo performer, composer, instrumentalist, and vocalist. A lifetime love of music enables William to take his audiences on a rich cultural journey of creative stories with a history over 60,000 years in the making.

William has composed works in collaboration with orchestras, string quartets, jazz and rock bands across the country, integrating the unique First Nations heritage of the didgeridoo. Performing on classical stages from the Vatican to the Royal Court of Spain, Anzac Cove to the Beijing Olympics and a live BBC One broadcast premiering his composition Kalkadungu’s Journey at Westminster Abbey to commemorate Commonwealth Day 2019, yet he feels equally comfortable sharing his talents at home in Queensland.

Amidst his international acclaim, numerous awards and performances, William finds joy in giving back to his community with performances, workshops for children and by teaching future generations didgeridoo, First Nations storytelling and language.

Joe Brumm is the creator, writer and showrunner of Bluey, an expertly produced animated children’s television series about a family of dogs, set in Brisbane.

The success of Bluey has been incredible and is now spoken about as being as important a cultural export as Crocodile Dundee. In 2019 it was bought by Disney, who distribute it globally. The show is entirely produced in Queensland, by Queenslanders. Joe has personally hired and trained hordes of young graduate animators, arming them all with a CV and showreel that will set them up well for the rest of their careers.

Bluey has captured the hearts and positively impacted the lives of children and adults all around the world. It makes people laugh, cry, and strive to be better parents. The winner of several prestigious industry awards, including a Logie, an Emmy and a BAFTA, as well as Bluey being among the top ten most streamed programs globally for 2022, Joe has shown that Brisbane can produce world class film and television.

The Honourable Tony Fitzgerald AC KC has a legacy of fighting systemic corruption and abuse of power in Queensland throughout his distinguished legal and judicial career.

In the late 1980s, Tony chaired the Commission of Inquiry into Possible Illegal Activities, widely known as the Fitzgerald Inquiry, which transformed Queensland’s policing and political landscape considerably.  A significant number of prosecutions followed the inquiry and lead to three ministers and the Commissioner of Police being jailed, along with numerous other convictions. This watershed report also led to the establishment of the Criminal Justice Commission, now known as the Crime and Corruption Commission, which continues the Inquiry’s work to this day.

Tony is known for his fierce independence and moral authority. His achievements are recognised in Queensland and elsewhere as evidence by him being awarded as a Companion of the Order of Australia. This accolade was awarded in recognition of his service to law and the people of Queensland.

Steve Renouf is a Gunggari and Gubbi Gubbi man who has contributed to Queensland in many ways. During his Rugby League career, Steve represented Queensland and Australia at the highest levels as well as signing with English team, Wiggan, in 1999.

Steve’s profile as a successful Aboriginal football player means he has been an inspirational role model and mentor for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people for most of his adult life. Upon retirement from professional football, Steve was a guiding force behind the Queensland Government’s state-wide Get Active health, well-being and sport program, a legacy project of the 2000 Olympic Games.

Steve has also lead Aurizon Rail’s Indigenous employment strategy, been an ambassador for the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health, lead the roll-out of the highly effective Deadly Choices preventative health strategy, worked with the federal government as Co-Chair of their Medicine Safety Committee and been a strong public advocate for better understanding and health care for people living with Type 1 diabetes.

Adele Rice is synonymous with education and the refugee and humanitarian sector in Queensland, forging pathways for newly arrived individuals, families, and communities. Her significant contribution to the creation of a more cohesive Queensland goes far beyond her principalship.

From pioneering a community-based model of education, implementing psychosocial programs to counter the effects of trauma on learning, recognised as an expert in multicultural education, facilitating community partnerships in schools, conducting state-wide teacher training, taking part in early Indigenous reconciliation discussions, and asserting settlement advice within the political realm, Adele strives for social equity and leaves an indelible legacy in Queensland education.

Adele personifies the adage ‘it takes a village’, creating networks and opportunities for students and families to integrate into the fabric of our Queensland society.

The Rural Fire Service (RFS) provides support to 93 percent of Queensland with approximately 28,000 volunteers, 1,400 Rural Fire Brigades (RFBs) and 2,400 fire warden districts. This support includes frontline firefighting and a wide range of support services.

Each year, RFBs help Queensland communities prepare for fire seasons, train new members, conduct hazard reduction burns, build understanding of cultural land management practices, and deliver community education to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from the impacts of fire and emergency events.

The RFS has made significant contributions to the safety of Queenslanders by developing and implementing innovative technology systems like state-of-the-art mapping technology, Mobile Situational Overview, and improving culturally sensitive land management practices through their Jigija Roadmap. An Indigenous Fire Training Program named Jigija, provides wildfire management and mitigation training on traditional lands and offers unique opportunities for RFS to share traditional knowledge of fire ecology, together with practical lessons relevant to contemporary fire management across Queensland.

With the rollout of these vital projects, volunteers have access to innovative technology and increased education to reduce fire risk and better manage land in a culturally sensitive manner.

Dr Honor Dell Cleary (Aunty Honor) was a Koa woman who made significant contributions to early childhood education and the broader Aboriginal communities of Cherbourg, Greater Brisbane, and Queensland. Aunty Honor was part of the first cohort of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who were selected to be trained as community teachers and went on to work at Yelangi Preschool on the Brisbane’s south side for the next 25 years, teaching many First Nations children who went on to succeed in their chosen fields.

She provided high level guidance to many senior government officials and was instrumental in the establishment of 13 Indigenous playgroups across Queensland as well as providing Eldership and guidance to ensure that First Nations children and their families had a great start engaging with education.

Aunty Honor dedicated her time as a community advocate and played an active role in the Brisbane Natives Rugby League Football Club, The Golden Oldies (an annual celebration of Elders from Aboriginal Missions and communities), numerous Elders groups, the first Aboriginal debutant balls and The Ration Shed Museum Tours to Cherbourg's Historical Precinct. ‘Honour Dell Cleary Place’ was opening in 2018 at Lawnton for her outstanding contribution to the local Aboriginal community. Whilst her biggest achievements were within early childhood education, the impact of Aunty Honour’s devotion to improving life outcomes for First Nations people and other vulnerable members of the community are considerable.

Emeritus Professor Alan Mackay-Sim AM made a profound contribution to Queensland as a world-leading scientist in the use of patient-derived stem cells for spinal cord injury rehabilitation and neuroscience drug discovery that dramatically changed treatment options for paraplegia.

Alan’s work helped to establish Queensland as a hub for cutting-edge neuroscience research and contributed to the growth of the state’s biotechnology industry. His research was the catalyst for Queensland’s developments in the field of injury rehabilitation and contributed towards the MAIC funded pre-clinical trial led by Professor James St John to produce 3D biodegradable nerve cell bridges. Alan revolutionised the use of patient-derived stem cells (in contrast to transgenic animal models) to open new research possibilities in developing disease-modifying drugs for neurological conditions.

Alan was driven by a life-long commitment to making a difference in the health and wellbeing of our communities. He remained committed to developing a cure for neurological diseases, staying the course when major drug companies had closed their neuroscience research departments.

Born on Barambah Mission in 1936, now known as Cherbourg, Uncle Albert Holt heralds from the Bidjara Nation of Queensland. He was the first Senior Indigenous Queensland Police Liaison Officer, joining the force in 1995, and most notably helped establish the Queensland Murri courts in 2006, advising magistrates on cultural issues, assisting defendants to understand the court processes and accessing Elders to support and rehabilitate Indigenous offenders. His contribution to education is also significant, having founded Hymba Yumba Independent School, an institution deeply committed to the traditions of Indigenous culture, spirituality and identity. For two decades, he lobbied for Queensland schools to be more inclusive and transparent of a shared and unafraid Aboriginal history in the curriculum. He was pivotal in the establishment of the Inala Indigenous Health Service which works towards closing the health and wellbeing gap in one of Australia’s highest populated First Nations metropolitan communities. Uncle Albert Holt has blazed a formidable trail advocating for community justice, health and higher education of race, gender, class equality, enriching the lives for all Queenslanders.

Usman Khawaja was born in Pakistan and emigrated to Australia with his family at the age of five. Prior to moving to Queensland in 2012, Usman made his first-class cricket debut for New South Wales before playing his first international match for Australia, becoming the first Muslim and first Australian of Pakistani origin to represent the country in cricket. He has led the Queensland Cricket team to countless victories since his appointment as Captain in 2015, and is well-known for his class, maturity and respect both on and off the field. He founded The Usman Khawaja Foundation, which runs programs that assist youth from refugee, immigrant, Indigenous, rural, remote and low-socio economic backgrounds, through introductory cricket and educational-support programs. It provides pathways to set these young Australians on the road to fulfilling their aspirations and plays an important role in Australia’s future.

The late Else Shepherd was one of the first women to graduate in Electrical Engineering in Queensland. During her career she fought for opportunities for the full participation of women in the engineering profession. She chaired Powerlink Queensland for 17 years and was Chairman or Director of a number of organisations over her career. She was an Honorary Fellow of Engineers Australia, a Fellow of the Academy of Technology and Engineering and a Member of the Order of Australia. As a role model for future Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths professionals and leaders, she helped to break unconscious bias that can hinder motivation to have a successful career in STEM. Else’s tales highlight her technical and leadership strengths as well as her persistence and resilience, inspiring the next generation of engineers and leaders. Else also had a degree in conducting and played a significant role in the development of community music opportunities in Queensland.

The late Emeritus Professor Dr Stuart Pegg was a pioneer of burns management and widely recognised for his achievements in developing and providing life-saving treatment for critically ill burns patients. During his career, he was a constant advocate for burns patients and better training and facilities for staff. In the 1960s Dr Pegg travelled to leading burns centres around the world to gather information to return home and treat patients in Queensland. In a time when women were actively discouraged from entering the surgical field, he fostered and fought for equal opportunity allocations for female resident doctors into surgical specialities. In 1977 he was appointed Director of Surgery at the Adult Burns Unit of the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital which was later named The Professor Stuart Pegg Adult Burns Centre. The exemplary and inspirational qualities demonstrated by Dr Pegg include leadership and mentorship, humility, innate kindness and the deepest compassion.

Professor Gracelyn Smallwood is a Bindal, Birrigubba, Kalkadoon and South Sea Islander woman living in Townsville, and regarded as one of the most prominent First Nations health and justice experts in Australia. She is a published author, an internationally renowned health and human rights advocate and a former consultant for the World Health Organisation. She has been involved in the Rights of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples since 1968 and is known for providing continued assistance, even at a personal expense, to many Indigenous families and children. After growing up in North Queensland in an era with few options available for Aboriginal girls, Gracelyn became a registered nurse and midwife, delivering care in communities across Queensland and remote Australia for 50 years. She became the first Indigenous Australian to receive a Masters of Science in Public Health at James Cook University (JCU) for her groundbreaking work on HIV education in North Queensland Indigenous communities. She was involved in the development of the cultural curriculum for the School of Nursing at JCU under the auspice of Professor Barbara Hayes. Professor Smallwood has been awarded with several accolades including Queensland Aboriginal of the Year in 1986, Member for the Order of Australia in 1992, and National NAIDOC Person of the Year in 2014.

Professor Peter Timms has made landmark scientific contributions related to the major infectious disease threats to koalas, including Chlamydia and Koala Retrovirus, where he is recognised as the research authority. Based in Queensland, Peter is leading the race to develop vaccines to safeguard this Australian icon from extinction—championing the underpinning science, its trialling and translation, and giving further to Queensland by supervising PhD students, mentoring early career researchers and working with numerous local koala carer/rescue groups. Peter is passionate about koala science and advocates this regularly through his community engagement.

Queensland Museum Network (QMN) is the storyteller of Queensland. The museums’ scientists and curators collect, preserve and share the natural and cultural history stories of this state and contribute to the knowledge economy through ground-breaking research and discovery. Since 1862, QMN has also brought the world to Queensland through award-winning exhibitions, public programs and major events such as World Science Festival Brisbane. Its statewide network, outreach programs and digital platform break down barriers and connect communities, fostering a society inspired by knowledge and equipped to make informed decisions for the future.

Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori (circa 1924-2015) was born on Bentinck Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria off the coast of far north Queensland. She was a celebrated contemporary Queensland Indigenous artist who made a significant international impact in the art world. Sally represented a living connection to the ancestry and geography of her people across an exceptional output of paintings. She left a legacy of culturally important paintings that are in the collections of national and international galleries, and helped to inspire the next generation of Indigenous Australian artists. Sally was one of the last surviving keepers of Kaiadilt language, traditions, stories and culture. Her language name, Mirdidingkingathi, means ‘born at Mirdidingki’, her country on Bentinck Island, and Juwarnda means ‘dolphin’, her totem. ip, humility, innate kindness and the deepest compassion.

Emeritus Professor Ken Donald AO has had a lengthy and illustrious career of more than 40 years in medical practice, health policy and medical education. His academic contributions, consisting of more than 90 published journal articles and textbooks, demonstrate his ongoing commitment to the development of research and education across a number of fields including pathology, social and preventive medicine, and veterans’ health. Ken’s work with AIDS control and veterans’ health will long stand as his greatest achievements.

Deborah Mailman is one of Australia’s most celebrated actors. A proud Bidjara woman, Deborah grew up in Mount Isa and her outstanding performances in film, television and theatre have been acknowledged by numerous awards across stage and screen. Deborah is a role model to many young Indigenous people, dedicating her time to Indigenous literacy awareness projects. Deborah also helped establish the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Program of Contact Youth Theatre and the Kooemba Jdarra Indigenous Performing Arts programs, which develop and produce contemporary performances on the stories of Indigenous Australians both locally and internationally.

The late Daphne Pirie AO MBE was an inspirational sportswoman and administrator who worked tirelessly for more than 60 years to promote women in sport. Considered one of Australia’s most successful female athletes, Daphne’s sporting career spanned some 40 years, when she achieved success in track and field, hockey and golf. Daphne devoted her life to promoting women in sport and, as the founding President of Womensport Queensland, had the clear vision of encouraging female athletes and communicating their outstanding achievements.

The late Sir Sydney Schubert was one of Queensland’s most distinguished public servants who was instrumental in shaping Queensland’s strong economic development during the 1970s and 1980s. Sydney’s contributions are widely acknowledged for transforming the Queensland economy. His passion for Queensland was also displayed through his contribution to higher education, business, the arts and the environment. Sydney was awarded a knighthood in 1985 for his outstanding contribution to the Queensland public service and received an Honorary Doctorate in 2006 from James Cook University for the management of northern Queensland’s environmental assets.

Terry White AO is a businessman who successfully developed Queensland-based company, Terry White Chemists. The national franchise and brand has more than 160 pharmacies across the country, with many in Queensland where the head office has always been located. As a former president of the Pharmacy Guild, Terry was heavily involved in developing services to upskill pharmacists as small business people. He has also chaired several companies such as the Terry White Chemists Group and Metro South Hospital Board.

Queensland Meals on Wheels provides an invaluable service to the Queensland community. With more than 15,000 volunteers providing meals to thousands of clients daily, it is represented by the largest volunteer workforce of any voluntary organisation in the state. This service provides an important social and community link to clients who live in isolation and are unable to prepare meals for themselves. The organisation also helps reduce the need for premature admission to hostels or nursing homes, and provides more than two million meals each year.

Emeritus Professor Peter Andrews played a founding and significant role in establishing Queensland's biotechnology sector, which now contributes more than $1.44 billion each year to the state's economy. Professor Andrews co-founded The University of Queensland's Institute for Molecular Bioscience and was Chief Executive of its commercialisation company, which spun out multiple companies under his stewardship.

Professor Andrews was Queensland's inaugural Chief Scientist, where he shaped a vision for Queensland's future that harnessed research and development and set up frameworks to deliver this vision. He has held board positions for multiple Queensland science organisations and invested in Queensland start-ups through his venture capital company.

Natalie Cook, an Olympic Gold Medallist in 2000 and a five-time Olympian spanning from 1996 to 2012 in Beach Volleyball, was honoured with the Order of Australia Medal in 2000 for her contributions to sport. In 2000, alongside her partner Kerri Pottharst, she was part of the Queensland Team of the Year, marking the first time the award recognised athletes from a non-high-profile sport.

Natalie is the Founder and Director of Green and Gold Athletes Australia Ltd, trading as Aussie Athlete Fund, dedicated to raising Australia's green and gold aspirations and supporting all athletes representing the country.

Natalie is a Board Member for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games (2022 to 2026) and was the President of the Queensland Olympic Council (2013 to 2021).

Keri Craig-Lee’s first Brisbane Arcade boutique in 1978 launched a couture precinct that steadfastly remains a Queensland fashion showcase.

A family company founded with her parents Dianne and Peter Craig still operates to this day in the iconic Keri Craig Emporium in the landmark Brisbane Arcade.

In 1984 she cast Queensland fashion into the international spotlight with the design and coordination of Sir Elton John’s Sydney wedding. During her career Keri has won 55 fashion awards and was the inaugural recipient of the Retailers Association of Queensland (RAQ) Hall of Fame in 1987 at the age of 29. Keri was the only female recipient of this award and the only designer ever bestowed with the RAQ Award of Excellence.

Keri has held many ambassadorial roles over her long standing career in Queensland business and had the honour of being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2017.

Keri and her husband, Trevor Lee, established Australian Country Choice (ACC) in 1997. ACC is recognised as the largest fully integrated beef and cattle supply chain in the world. They were honoured to be inducted into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame in 2021.

Scott Hutchinson, Chairman of Hutchinson Builders, has transformed the construction landscape, propelling the company's growth from $6M to over $3B.

Renowned for his philanthropy and cultural advocacy, Scott champions numerous charities, the urban honey bee initiative, and the preservation of Brisbane's live music scene through venues like The Triffid and The Fortitude Music Hall. His commitment to social progress is highlighted by Statim Yaga, a training and employment initiative fostering indigenous employment.

Scott's extensive contributions, celebrated through various awards, underscore his profound influence on Queensland's construction industry and cultural heritage.

Getano Lui has dedicated 50 years of leadership and serves as a prominent advocate for the Torres Strait Islands. His notable achievements include his pivotal role in establishing the Torres Strait Island Flag, participation in international affairs as Co-chair of the Bilateral Committee – Traditional Inhabitants Meeting between Australia and Papua New Guinea, and unwavering commitment to advancing the Torres Strait Island community.

Getano has provided steadfast local leadership to the community of Iama (Yam) Island spanning from 1974 to 2024, while also serving as an inspirational figure to the next generation of leaders.

Getano is the proud father of Ms Cynthia Lui, the Member for Cook and the first Torres Strait Islander elected to the Queensland Parliament.

LifeFlight has proudly helped 90,000 people since 1979. Not just Queensland’s leading aeromedical service provider, LifeFlight is a community organisation driven to make a difference and save lives. Every 70 minutes, LifeFlight rescues a seriously ill or injured Queenslander at no cost to the patient.

From a single aircraft to a world-leader in aeromedicine, operating multiple successful social enterprises, their services are estimated to deliver $1.04 billion in social and economic benefits annually.

More than 500 highly skilled critical care doctors, nurses, paramedics, engineers, aviation and medical training experts, coordination specialists, fundraising staff and administrators are employed by LifeFlight across nine bases - eight in Queensland and one in Singapore.

Sir Bruce Small is known as 'Mr Gold Coast’ and is credited with putting Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast on the global map. He served as the inaugural State Member for Surfers Paradise in Queensland Parliament for two terms. Often called 'the architect of the modern Gold Coast', he developed canal estates now worth billions, which set town-planning precedents and lifted standards statewide. Bruce also initiated boulder walls to protect against beach erosion.

The three-time Gold Coast Mayor travelled to over 55 towns and cities over two decades to promote the tourism city to the world.

Bruce was a philanthropist, donating millions of dollars and his entire Mayoral and Parliamentarian wages to charity for 12 years, from the age of 71 to 83.

The late Isobel (Pixie) Annat MBE OAM completed nursing training at the Brisbane General Hospital in 1948–52 and the Nambour Hospital in 1953–54. Following several years working abroad, Pixie returned to the Brisbane General Hospital before joining the Royal Australian Nursing Federation, where she became the Queensland Secretary, and later the Federal President. In 1965, Pixie was appointed Matron at St Andrew's War Memorial Hospital before becoming Chief Executive Officer in 1978.

Pixie worked tirelessly to raise money to advance the ground breaking work being done at the hospital delivering improvements to medical and surgical practices. As CEO, Pixie helped St Andrew’s Hospital launch one of the first Neurosurgery Units in the country and the first Nuclear Medicine Department at a private hospital. The hospital also established a Cardiac Unit and became the first private hospital in the state to perform open heart surgery. Pixie was St Andrew’s longest serving executive and following retirement in 1992 continued service in a voluntary capacity, working on the boards of St Luke’s Nursing Service and the Lady Musgrave Trust and as a member of the Centaur Memorial Fund for Nurses, the Royal Brisbane Hospital Nurses Association and St Andrew’s Hospital auxiliary. Pixie was a passionate advocate for the rights of Queensland nurses and women in the workplace and maintained a deep commitment to social activism, supporting Queensland's elderly and homeless women, and in particular, victims of domestic violence.

Sisters, Dr Margaret Mittelheuser AM (1931–2013) and Dr Cathryn Mittelheuser AM have made transformative contributions to the arts, education and advancement of women across Queensland. Professionally, Margaret and Cathryn were pioneers for women in finance, business and science and, leading by example, created opportunities for Queensland women in these traditionally male dominated sectors.

Their humble and committed program of giving has significantly impacted the development of the state collection and immeasurably enriched Queensland’s cultural life. Cathryn joined the QAGOMA Foundation in 1985, with Margaret joining in 2001. Together, they have supported the acquisition of more than 100 artworks. Beyond QAGOMA, Cathryn and Margaret have provided vital education and career opportunities for women in Queensland through their support of The University of Queensland, Griffith University and Brisbane Girls Grammar School.

Professor Ajay Rane OAM is an esteemed physician, philanthropist and humanitarian who has shaped the care of women with urinary incontinence and pelvic dysfunction across the state and globally. Ajay established Queensland’s first non-metropolitan urogynaecology sub-specialty at Townsville University Hospital and is also the founding Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at James Cook University’s School of Medicine, where he continues to undertake world-leading research in vaginal reconstructive surgery. Through his charity, Flourishing Women, Ajay has galvanised a global medical community to treat women with fistula by donating time, expertise and surgical skill.  An advocate and activist, Ajay endeavours to protect the health and reproductive rights of the world's disadvantaged women and is a champion of women everywhere.

A clinical social worker on Thursday Island since 2009, Aunty Ivy Trevallion has been responsible for leading the child and youth social and emotional wellbeing program for children and families in the region. Aunty Ivy Trevallion began her journey to attain her qualification in human services by enrolling at Aboriginal Task Force, Adelaide where she completed her Community Development Certificate in 1977 and an Associate Diploma in Social Work in 1978. In 1982 she was accepted into the Social Work Facility and one of the first Torres Strait Islander social workers to have graduated from The University of Queensland in 1986. Aunty Ivy has dedicated her working life to child wellbeing and social work for more than 30 years.

Aunty Ivy helped deliver one of the most substantive developments in legislative and policy reform with the passing of the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020. Aunty Ivy has extensive experience in contributing to the governance of organisations through board and committee roles extending into the community, regional, state, national and international levels. She is also generous with her time, experience and expertise in the pursuit of better outcomes for Torres Strait Islanders living in Queensland, their children and families.

Karyn Walsh AM established and has led Micah Projects for 25 years and has been responsible for the development and implementation of innovative and effective policies and community services that address homelessness and domestic violence, support young parents, people with disability, including mental illness and substance use, preventing child abuse, and ensuring reparations for people who have experienced institutional abuse. During COVID-19, Karyn has worked with the Department of Housing and other non-government services in its response to support homeless people in Brisbane during the lockdowns, resulting in 1700 people accessing emergency housing. This included women and children escaping domestic violence. Karyn advocates a “Housing First” andan integrated approach, leading to statewide and nationwide homelessness practice changes that enable the most vulnerable to access healthcare and support services to sustain their tenancy.

QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute is one of Australia’s oldest and most successful medical research institutes. For 75 years, QIMR Berghofer has been dedicated to research that improves the health and wellbeing of Queenslanders. Originally established through an Act of the Queensland Parliament, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 65 state-of-the-art laboratories and approximately 1000 researchers, support staff and students. The Institute focuses on research into cancer, infectious diseases, mental health and chronic disorders. It leads global advances in preventing, diagnosing and treating some of the world’s most deadly and debilitating diseases. In 2020, QIMR Berghofer was one of the highest-ranked Australian institutions included in the Nature index of the world’s top 100 not-for-profit science institutions. Critically, QIMR Berghofer is at the forefront of finding answers to the COVID-19 global pandemic using the most advanced purpose-built biosecurity laboratory in Queensland.

Sister Regis Mary Dunne AO RSM is a pioneer of genetics and bioethics, with her work playing an instrumental role in several Queensland ‘firsts’ during a time when few women worked in these fields. In 1960, Sr Dunne established Queensland’s first cytogenetics diagnostic laboratory at Mater Hospital, resulting in earlier diagnosis of congenital abnormalities. The following year, she co-founded the first genetic counselling clinic in Australia to assist clinicians, patients and families deal with the complexities of these genetic diagnoses. In 1981, Sr Dunne became the founding director of Queensland’s first Bioethics Centre, offering free access to a library of bioethical information which was utilised by professionals, organisations and members of the public. A pioneer in the field of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), Sr Dunne has made a lifetime and ground-breaking contribution to global science, healthcare and ethics, inspiring many young scientists, researchers, students and healthcare professionals.

Stefan Ackerie AM is one of Queensland’s most recognisable public figures as a businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist. As founder and owner of the Stefan Corporation, the largest privately owned hairdressing company in the Southern Hemisphere, his commitment to educating young people has seen thousands of young Queenslanders employed under the Stefan Rainbow. Stefan is also known for his generosity and charity work to support the homeless, needy and sick children in hospitals all over Queensland.

Dr Dimity Dornan AO is the founder of Hear and Say Centres for Deaf Children and a pioneer in her field. She was the first to graduate in speech pathology at the University of Queensland and the first speech pathologist to work at the Royal Brisbane and other hospitals. Dimity’s resolve to find an auditory-verbal solution for deaf children has led to a number of world firsts, providing training for teaching professionals in Auditory-Verbal Therapy (AVT) and creating the AVT eLearning model for service delivery. Dimity has significantly raised the profile of hearing health throughout Queensland, Australia and the world.

Tim Fairfax AC is a businessman, philanthropist and pastoralist, well known for his philanthropy and leadership within the arts and through the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation. Tim’s generosity and commitment have enriched Queensland Art Gallery’s (QAG) collection. He has also supported many QAG Children’s Art Centre initiatives including children’s programs run throughout regional and remote Queensland.

Professor G.Q. Max Lu AO FAA FTSE is a nanotechnologist and scholar whose contributions to Queensland and world science are leaving a powerful legacy. Max spearheaded one of Australia’s premier research centres, the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Functional Nanomaterials, which has helped position Australia at the forefront of nanotechnology internationally. Max has mentored next generation researchers as a university leader and co-authored publications and patents, achieving the elite scientist status of Highly Cited Researcher.

Herb Wharton AM is an Elder of the Kooma people of southwest Queensland. As a poet and novelist, Herb has travelled the world taking part in literary festivals and serving as an ambassador of Australian literature and for Aboriginal Australia. Herb’s writing is read and studied at schools and universities across the state and he is recognised as a mentor to younger generations. He has won numerous awards for his outstanding and lifelong contributions to Australian literature.

Australian Red Cross Society was established in 1914 and is one of the largest and most respected humanitarian organisations in Queensland. The organisation has more than 75 town branches,
2500 members and 6000 volunteers. The Red Cross assists Queensland communities to prepare for, respond to and recover from disaster. It provides homeless services and support for culturally diverse families, independent adults and unaccompanied minors.

Dr Sallyanne Atkinson AO is a community leader who has made an outstanding contribution to Queensland in government, business, sport, international trade, community and the arts. Elected as Brisbane’s first female Lord Mayor in 1985, Sallyanne initiated the most comprehensive plan undertaken by any Australian city, covering land use planning, transport, economic development and social issues, as well as presiding over World Expo ‘88. Sallyanne has been a passionate advocate for her community while holding a diverse range of leadership roles in Queensland.

Fred Conway is a custodian of the Bidgera people, an Indigenous Elder and advocate for protecting Indigenous cultural sites. A ranger with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Fred has spent his life helping people understand Aboriginal history and culture. Fred has also been instrumental in developing a unique program for Queensland that trains young Indigenous people and allows them to return to country, gain employment and have a meaningful involvement in the management of their traditional lands.

Dr Patrick Corrigan AM is an arts philanthropist and one of Australia’s most prolific art collectors and patrons. His love of Australian art, books, photography, sport and music has led to 40 years of philanthropic contributions to regional, state and national institutions. Patrick has contributed to various collections across the state and provided support for Bond University’s Indigenous education initiatives. This support has had a quantifiable impact on closing the gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their communities.

Professor Adèle Green AC is a clinical epidemiologist and leader in biomedical science who has contributed to combating skin cancer and melanoma through groundbreaking research. Adèle has dedicated her career to understanding the preventable causes of cancers including skin cancer and melanoma, and collaboratively ovarian and oesophagus cancers. Adèle was among the first to address the skin cancer epidemic in Queensland. She played a crucial role in convincing Australians wearing sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer, with regular use halving the risk of melanoma.

The late Win Schubert AO was an arts philanthropist and former gallerist who made a significant contribution to the arts in Queensland. Win was one of Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) Foundation’s most generous donors and worked tirelessly to build visual arts and QAGOMA’s collection in particular. Win had a genuine desire to support the development of art and artists, and further supported contemporary visual arts in Queensland through the gifting of a large number of works to tertiary institution collections.

Endeavour Foundation is a not-for-profit charity established in Queensland in 1951, and one of the largest disability service providers in Australia. The organisation employs more than 1800 staff and 1200 volunteers who support people with a disability in more than 4000 placements. Since its inception, Endeavour Foundation has changed and evolved in response to the requirements and interests of people with a disability, their families and the community.

Andrew Brice AM is co-founder and non-executive director of online tourism company Wotif.com, which has provided hundreds of jobs and helped build the Queensland tourism industry. Andrew is considered one of Queensland’s most generous philanthropists and is passionate about providing opportunities to disadvantaged young people. He has donated more than 10 per cent of his net wealth, funding the University of Queensland (UQ) Endowment and UQ’s Young Achievers Program to invest in young people who, without support, would struggle to attend university.

Distinguished Professor James Dale AO FTSE is an entrepreneur, humanitarian and scientist who specialises in plant and medical biotechnology research. James’ work on genetic modification for disease resistance and biofortification helps protect Queensland’s crops, as well as benefiting people in developing countries. His genetically modified super banana has the potential to reduce infant mortality and blindness in children across Africa, while his research attracts world-class scientists and international funding to Queensland.

Pat Fennell is a staunch advocate for rural Queensland and a pioneering bush woman. Raised in Charleville, Pat became involved in countless community organisations and committees including the Cattle Council of Australia and the Women’s Council for Rural and Regional Communities. Pat is also an integral advocate for education in rural areas of Queensland, educating her own four children and the Aboriginal children of her station workers. Pat has lobbied to have Aboriginal officers appointed to the local hospital in Mount Isa and campaigned for Rural Women’s GP Health Clinics to create sustainability in the remote health system.

The late John (Jack) Gleeson AM KSG was considered a pioneer in the broadcasting industry. He was responsible for bringing commercial television to Townsville and, in the 1980s, launched satellite television across 18 major towns and many smaller populated areas across North Queensland. Jack received an Order of Australia in 1985 for his extraordinary service to the radio and television broadcasting industry and, in 2006, was appointed a Papal Knight in the Order of Pope St Gregory the Great. Jack has also made notable contributions across other community sectors including fundraising for aged care facilities and the development of tertiary scholarship programs to assist rural and regional students across Queensland.

The late Robert MacPherson AM was a critically acclaimed artist of international repute, having collections across all state galleries, the National Gallery and many regional and private collections. Robert had a pervasive influence on successive generations of Australian artists and celebrated his career over the last four decades in Queensland. As a highly regarded artist, Robert was a generous benefactor to art museums through his own key works, the works of his artist peers and through his correspondence with other artists.

The late Steve Irwin, popularly known as the Crocodile Hunter, was a highly respected conservationist and world-renowned television personality who founded one of Queensland’s most iconic tourist destinations. Steve fostered his passion for wildlife conservation growing up at his parents’ Beerwah Reptile and Fauna Park. Steve took over the park with wife Terri in 1992 and rebranded it Australia Zoo, with a commitment to becoming the best conservation facility in the world. His popular wildlife documentary series, The Crocodile Hunter, allowed Steve to spread his conservation message to audiences around the world.

RSL (Queensland Branch) was established in 1916 to support current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force and their families. RSL’s services include free compensation advice for those who have suffered illness or injury; low cost and emergency housing; home and hospital visits to the ill and infirm; and assistance to those suffering financial hardship. RSL also supports significant initiatives for the Australian Defence Force and broader community including physical and psychological rehabilitation through Mates4Mates, medical research and community sponsorships.

Robert (Bob) Atkinson AO APM commenced his public service with the Queensland Police Service in 1968 and quickly discovered a passion for investigations. Bob was appointed to the rank of Inspector following the Fitzgerald Commission of Inquiry, and in the year 2000 was appointed Commissioner of Police. Bob successfully oversaw security for the 2002 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the first high-level meeting of international leaders after the United States terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001. Other significant achievements include overseeing responses to Cyclone Larry in 2006 and the 2010–11 statewide flood and cyclone disasters, reductions in crime and the road toll, enforcing welfare support, advocating for multiculturalism, and increasing Police Liaison Officer positions, including the first Sudanese and Muslim positions. Bob retired as Police Commissioner in late 2012 and in January 2013 was appointed as one of six Commissioners for the five-year Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. His contribution continues today in advisory roles for youth justice, sentencing for child homicide offences and as Chair of the Truth, Healing and Reconciliation Taskforce.

Distinguished Professor Judith Clements AC is one of Australia's leading biomedical researchers. In 2015 Judith was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia for her eminent service to the biological sciences through cancer research and education. Judith has made a significant contribution to both prostate and ovarian cancer research, and the development of cancer research infrastructure and capability in Australia. Judith played a key role in establishing the Australian Prostate Cancer Bioresource and the Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre – Queensland and is a national leader in international collaborative research spanning discovery and preclinical and clinical trials. Her advocacy and dedication has influenced the research landscape to bring hope to people with cancer and has provided a visionary pathway for future scientists.

Born and bred in Queensland, Dr Mark Loane AM has excelled in the fields of medicine and sport. As Captain of the Wallabies from 1979 to 1982, Mark was inducted into the Australian Rugby Union Hall of Fame and named one of the Queensland’s top 50 sportspeople of all time in 2007. Mark later retired from his stellar rugby career to pursue studies in ophthalmology, receiving the Cedric Cohen Medal for Excellence. Mark established, and still runs, the Cape York Eye Health Project, which provides health services to many remote Indigenous communities in northern Queensland and has treated more than 20,000 patients. In 2011, Mark was named a Member of the Order of Australia for services to medicine in the field of ophthalmology, particularly to the Indigenous communities of northern Queensland, and as a contributor to the development of sustainable health services.

Kay McGrath OAM is an award-winning Queensland journalist with more than 40 years’ experience. Throughout her career, Kay has been an inspirational and exemplary public figure, coupling her journalism with volunteer support for some of Queensland’s most deserving causes. In 1985, Kay co-founded the child protection organisation, Protect All Children Today (PACT). Since its establishment, PACT has worked on behalf of children, providing support for more than 20,000 child witnesses and their families through the Child Witness Support Program, establishing the now-national Child Protection Week, and advocating for child witnesses in a variety of forums. Kay is also an Ambassador for Act for Kids and Patron of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. In 2017, Kay was appointed to serve as Chair of the Domestic and Family Violence Implementation Council, overseeing and championing implementation of Queensland’s domestic and family violence reforms. In this role, Kay has led representatives from the community and key government agencies to review and promote action to address domestic and family violence in Queensland.

Patricia O’Connor is a co-founder of the Kombumerri Aboriginal Corporation for Culture, formed 35 years ago to research and promote her community’s language and story. In 1986, Patricia jointly led Australia’s first major repatriation of about 200 Aboriginal remains on the Gold Coast. Shortly after, Patricia organised community meetings to regather their Yugambeh language, which experts had previously said was lost. This work led to the corporation opening the Yugambeh Museum, Language and Heritage Research Centre in 1995, as an Aboriginal research space. In 1991 with her sister Ysola Best, Patricia created Australia’s first war memorial to Indigenous service men and women. At 90 years of age, Patricia continues to work at the Yugambeh Museum. A legacy of Patricia’s work is that Yugambeh Language can now be taught in schools and through community.

Since 1922, the Queensland Country Women's Association (QCWA) has connected, supported, advocated and cooked its way to improving the lives of women and their families in rural, regional and remote communities across Queensland. With 240 branches and more than 3700 members spread throughout the length and breadth of Queensland, the QCWA has set the benchmark as Queensland's oldest, largest and one of the most influential women's organisations. QCWA’s vision is for the women of Queensland to come together to support communities, celebrate their interests and forge friendships in a respectful and caring environment. This is achieved by advocating and providing opportunities for women centred around education, health and community, throughout every phase of a woman’s life.

Born in Maryborough, Dr John Sinclair AO joined the Wildlife Preservation Society in the 1960s. John became increasingly involved in the conservation movement and in 1971 formed the Fraser Island Defenders Organisation (FIDO). For six years FIDO fought sand-mining of the forested dunes of K'gari (formerly Fraser Island). The battles came at significant personal and financial cost for John, including bankruptcy, but he never lost his love or passion for the island. John’s fight to protect K'gari from overexploitation meant sand-mining and logging were stopped and countless visitors are now able to experience its World Heritage listed beauty. In 2014 John was appointed the Order of Australia for his outstanding commitment to conservation and in 2017 the Sunshine Coast University presented an honorary doctorate to John as ‘one of Australia’s leading nature conservationists’.

The late Charles (Chuck) Feeney was, by global standards, a major philanthropist and his contribution to Australian philanthropy in general, and to the development of educational, scientific and research infrastructure in Queensland, in particular, was nothing short of game changing. In 1982 Chuck founded The Atlantic Philanthropies (TAP), which operated anonymously for more than 15 years and, in all, donated some $10.9 billion (AUD) to health, education, science and other social causes. From 1990, Chuck, through TAP, donated $549 million (AUD) to Australian and Australian-related entities with the majority of that benefaction directed towards Queensland-based initiatives and institutions. These included The University of Queensland's Institute for Molecular Bioscience and Queensland Brain Institute; Translational Research Institute; QUT’s Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and Science and Engineering Centre; QIMR Berghofer Queensland Institute; and Griffith University, as well as significant support for the Wesley Medical Research Centre and the Princess Alexandra and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospitals.