Two Paddington residents have been recognised on the Australia Day 2026 Honours List, with long-standing contributions spanning the major events and tourism sector and the construction industry.
A Career Shaping Major Events And Tourism
Sandra Chipchase of Paddington, was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division for significant service to the major event and tourism industry.
Her career spans several decades across international, domestic and regional tourism, with senior leadership roles in destination marketing, major event delivery and precinct development. She served as Chief Executive Officer of Destination NSW from 2011 to 2019 and was Executive Producer of Vivid Sydney Festival between 2012 and 2019, overseeing the event’s development into one of Australia’s largest annual festivals.
Ms Chipchase’s professional background includes senior executive roles with the Melbourne Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority and Tourism Australia, alongside leadership of Australia’s Pavilion at World Expo 2000.
Governance And Industry Contribution
Beyond operational roles, Ms Chipchase has contributed extensively through board and advisory appointments. She is Chair of On Stage Australia, a company specialising in the design and management of mobile performance venues, and a Business Development Partner with Impresario Productions.
Her board experience includes service with the National Museum of Australia between 2021 and 2024, as well as chairing national advisory panels focused on tourism and business events recovery and industry development from 2020 to 2022.
Industry commentary accompanying her honours appointment cited sustained leadership, innovation and long-term contribution to Australia’s visitor economy and major events sector.
Service To Construction And Community
Also recognised from Paddington, Timothy John Murphy received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for service to the construction industry and to the community.
Mr Murphy is a foundation member and inaugural chairman of the Masonry Contractors Association and continues to serve as a director and treasurer. His industry involvement includes long-term participation in professional bodies and training organisations supporting skills development within the building sector.
His community service includes ongoing involvement with education-focused bursary programs and charitable initiatives linked to schools and memorial foundations.
Outlook
The Australia Day 2026 Honours List highlights Paddington residents whose careers reflect sustained professional service across distinct sectors. The appointments of Sandra Chipchase and Timothy John Murphy recognise long-term leadership, industry development and community involvement through national honours.
Published 27-Jan-2026
