Several members of the University of Technology Sydney UTS community in Ultimo have been acknowledged in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours list for their significant contributions to education, science, and philanthropy.
UTS Community Achievements
The King’s Birthday 2024 Honours list recognised the outstanding contributions of individuals associated with the University of Technology Sydney, including esteemed educators, a pioneering lawyer, and a dedicated philanthropist. UTS Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Andrew Parfitt extended his congratulations, noting the broad impact of their work in fields ranging from Indigenous history to forensic science.
Educational and Social Impact
Professor Heather Goodall, Professor Emerita of History in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, received the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to tertiary education and the Indigenous community. Goodall, who served at UTS from 1989 until her retirement in 2014, has been recognized internationally for her research on Australian Indigenous history and environmental history.
Legal and Medical Administration Excellence
Robert Kelly, a long-time member of the UTS community and former Pro-Chancellor, was also awarded an AM for his significant contributions to law and medical administration. His extensive career includes roles with the Law Council of Australia and the NSW Medical Board, reflecting his impact on both legal practices and healthcare governance.
Philanthropy and Support for Education
Dr. Laurie Cowled was honoured with an AM for her significant service to philanthropy, particularly in the arts, education, and health sectors, and for advancing women’s education. Cowled, a champion for equitable access to education, established the Laurie Cowled Scholarship at UTS, which supports women from rural, regional, and Indigenous backgrounds.
Advancements in Forensic Science
Dr. Jodie Ward, UTS Adjunct Associate Professor in Forensic Science, received the Public Service Medal for her leadership of the Australian Federal Police’s National DNA Program for Unidentified and Missing Persons. Her work has been crucial in using forensic science to solve complex cases and provide closure for families of the missing.
Contributions to Microbiology
Dr. Damien Stark, awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), has been recognized for his service to medicine in the field of microbiology. A UTS alumnus, Dr. Stark is a principal scientist at St Vincent’s Hospital and has developed new diagnostic tests for parasitic infections.
Significance of the Honours
AO (Officer of the Order of Australia): This is a higher level of recognition than the AM and is awarded for distinguished service of a high degree to Australia or to humanity at large. The recipients of this award have had a significant impact through their contributions and leadership.
AM (Member of the Order of Australia): This award is given for service in a particular locality or field of activity or to a particular group. It is lower than the AO but still recognizes significant achievement or meritorious service.
OAM (Medal of the Order of Australia): This is awarded for service worthy of particular recognition. Recipients of the OAM are usually those who have made valuable contributions at a local community level or whose achievements have a significant local impact.
Significance of the King’s Birthday Celebration
The King’s Birthday honours list is part of a longstanding tradition where the birthday of the reigning monarch is celebrated not on the actual date of birth, but rather on a designated day that ensures broader participation and favourable weather for ceremonial events.
For King Charles, who was born on November 14, the official celebration occurs in June. This tradition aligns with the UK’s historical practice of observing the monarch’s birthday during a time of likely good weather, enhancing the grandeur of public festivities like the Trooping the Colour parade.
In Australia, the King’s Birthday provides an occasion to acknowledge and reward the contributions of its citizens through the Order of Australia honours. These honours are an integral part of the celebration, recognizing outstanding achievements and service across various fields, as demonstrated by the distinguished members of the UTS community this year.
The recognition of these individuals highlights their exemplary service and aligns with the national celebration of leadership and commitment.
Published 13-June-2024