Australian Honours and Awards Investiture Ceremony G September 2026

Queensland Public Sector Deputy Commissioner, Ms Rhiannan Howell; Representing The Order of Australia Association, Queensland Branch, Mr Peter Henderson OAM; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen. 

I begin by also acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here this afternoon.

As Governor of Queensland, I am delighted to welcome you to Fernberg for this Investiture Ceremony, the final in a series of seven such events that we have held here this week.

As the representative of our Monarch King Charles The Third in Queensland, I have had — over the past five years — the great privilege of investing more than one thousand Queenslanders with Honours and Awards, and have always found these ceremonies to be uplifting occasions which allow us to recognise and celebrate so many deserving people.

While most investitures are held here at Government House, I have also conducted ceremonies at nursing homes, hospital bedsides, and in remote and rural communities — from as far north as the Torres Strait, and south to the sandy shores of Dickie Beach at Caloundra, and many places in-between.   

This afternoon we gather to celebrate the outstanding achievements of a group of remarkable Queenslanders, and to applaud them for their significant contributions to our state and our nation.

At this point, I want to make special mention of the late Mr Robert Bain AM KC who was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia for his significant service to the law and to the legal profession. Known as a giant in the legal profession, Robert was a towering figure whose intellect, integrity, generosity and kindness left an indelible mark on those around him. I offer my sincere condolences to his loved ones, and to his wife Mrs Lana Bain who today has accepted the insignia in his memory.

Taken collectively, the citations for today’s recipients demonstrate the breadth of talent — as well as the depth of generosity and compassion — that exists across our state.  

Those appointed today as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) or as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) have been recognised for their significant and enduring contributions across many aspects of society — from medical research and health care, to engineering, sports administration and service to Indigenous communities.

Some recipients have been recognised for distinguished careers leading medical research and practice, including in the areas of melanoma, skin cancer, and radiation oncology; while others have led alcohol and mental health support initiatives.  

Each recipient in this cohort has shared their deep technical knowledge and passion with others by holding high-level governance and advisory roles, through their involvement in research and publications, in leading professional standards in various disciplines, or through mentoring others.

Those recognised with the Public Service Medal (PSM) have excelled in their chosen professions, demonstrating strong leadership, sustained advocacy and genuine collaboration to make real and lasting differences to communities and industries across the state. In doing so, they have led services and programs to advance regional economic development, improve child protection and youth justice, and have championed our First Nations communities.

Those awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) have made significant impressions on their local communities, rendering their support and expertise to many worthy endeavours — from tourism and cultural initiatives; to nursing, aged care and palliative care; or services for the youth or homeless. Indigenous and Islamic communities have benefited from their leadership, as have sporting organisations like lawn bowls and touch football.

Despite the differences in career paths and community services that have led you here today, each of you has purposefully — and successfully — sought to make a positive and lasting difference to the lives of others.

I extend my congratulations and deep gratitude to each of you on the Honour you have received today. On behalf of the people of Queensland, I thank you for your remarkable contributions, which collectively have helped shape a more prosperous, dynamic and compassionate society in our state.

I hope you wear your insignia with pride long after you leave here today, so that your service does not go unnoticed and continues to inspire those around you.  

Please enjoy your time at Government House, and this chance to celebrate your achievements.