9 Novacastrians make the King's Birthday Honours list

Sharon Claydon MP speech, 15th June 2023:

I want to congratulate the 9 exceptional Novocastrians who were recognised in the recent King’s Birthday Honours list for outstanding leadership in their respective fields.

2 Novocastrians were awarded the Member of the Order (AM): Firstly, congratulations to the Honourable Mr Graham Mullane AM for his significant contributions to the judiciary, law, and the community. Mr Mullane holds the distinction of being the first judge appointed from the Hunter region in 1986. For over two decades, he dedicated his judicial service to family law at the Newcastle Registry of the Family Court of Australia. His commendable community leadership includes involvement with Scouts Australia and advocacy for the most vulnerable. Chairing esteemed organisations like the Royal Newcastle Hospital Board, the Hunter Institute of Mental Health's Advisory Board, and the Hunter Aged Care Foundation further exemplifies his commitment to serving others. Newcastle says thanks you to Graham Mullane for your lifetime of service.

Heartfelt congratulations to Mr Sean Gordon AM for his remarkable dedication to First Nations people and communities, as well as tireless advocacy for equity. Mr Gordon has devoted his professional life to fostering reconciliation between Indigenous and non-indigenous individuals, with a focus on education and representation. His involvement in the First Nations Constitutional Convention, which produced the Uluru Statement from the Heart, is testament to his instrumental role in advancing indigenous rights. This historic statement has paved the way for the upcoming Referendum to enshrine a First Nations Voice to Parliament in the Constitution. We honour Sean Gordon's courage and leadership with this well-deserved award.

I also acknowledge the following seven recipients of the Medal of the Order of Australia: Ms Vivienne Allanson OAM, CEO of Maroba Caring Communities since 1994, has dedicated herself to the aged care sector. Her extensive experience as a registered nurse, along with her role as a conjoint fellow at the University of Newcastle's School of Nursing and Midwifery, has earned her high regard. Her unwavering advocacy for older persons and commitment to positive change in the sector make her a fearless champion for older Australians.

Mr Ross Bingham OAM, CEO at Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW since 1996, for providing crucial support to hospitalised children and their families. Through various programs, his organisation ensures families can stay together and close to the care they need.

Dr Jennifer Buckingham OAM has been recognised for exceptional contributions to educational research and literacy. She collaborates with systems, schools, and teachers to enhance literacy instruction and assessment. As the founder of the Five from Five project, she has empowered countless children with the essential tools for reading in every classroom, every day.

Dr Ian Cameron OAM for his service to medical administration, and to rural and Indigenous health. Dr Cameron was born in Bourke in the New South Wales outback and worked there as a GP for a decade before moving to Newcastle in 96'. In Newcastle, he took on the role of chief executive for the New South Wales Rural Doctors Network, a position he held for 20 years until his retirement. Dr Cameron never forgot his roots and remains a strong advocate for healthcare in the bush. He was also conjoint lecturer in the College of Health, Medicine, & Wellbeing at The University of Newcastle. Thank you, Dr Cameron, for your passion and commitment to quality primary health care, regardless of your postcode or
circumstances.

Mr John Conaghan OAM for service to people with Huntington's Disease. As the senior social worker at the John Hunter Hospital, he has been instrumental in supporting individuals and families affected by Huntington's Disease since 1985. His compassionate approach & unwavering support have made a significant difference in challenging circumstances.

Ms Elizabeth Grist OAM for service to community health, and to nursing and midwifery. As the Hunter New England Health functional area commander, Ms Grist helped usher the Hunter through the COVID-19 pandemic. She was instrumental in developing the major COVID-19 vaccination clinic for our community, keeping Novocastrians protected and safe.

Finally, I want to acknowledge Mrs Patricia McMahon OAM for her service to the community through a range of organisations, including the RSL Women's Auxiliary, the Lioness Club, Probus, the Bowling Club, Meals on Wheels, and the Chamber of Commerce. Her tireless efforts and long-standing commitment exemplify her remarkable service to the community. Her recent appointment as Patron of the New Lambton sub-branch further recognises her outstanding contributions.

My warmest congratulations to all the recipients of these honours! Our community & nation is grateful for your service. Thank you.