Kara Cook (Bonner, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to acknowledge the extraordinary people who have been recognised on the 2026 Australia Day Honours List for their contribution to my community of Bonner. Emeritus Professor Roderick Drew AM was recognised for significant service to horticulture research and to agricultural development. Professor Drew is the president of the International Society for Horticultural Science and is the first Australian to fill the position. Dr Rodney Straw AM was recognised for his service to veterinary surgical oncology and to tertiary education. Dr Straw was the world's first veterinary fellow in surgical oncology and has been a leader in animal cancer research. Kenneth Brown OAM is being recognised for service to media. Brownie's Coastwatch was a staple for baysiders and local boaties for decades. He has been a trusted voice for Queensland boating and fishing communities since founding the show in 1989.

Aunty Aileen 'Merle' Dippel OAM was recognised for her service to the Indigenous community. Aunty Merle has worked tirelessly through the Winnam Aboriginal Torres Strait Islanders Corporation, as a volunteer at Georgina Hostel and Aged Care and as a founding member of the Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders-in-Council Aboriginal Corporation. Dr Bronwyn Herbert OAM has been recognised for service to youth social welfare. Dr Herbert has dedicated her life to social work, with involvement with Silky Oaks Children's Haven, Bayside family day care, Moreton Bay College and St Peter's Anglican Church.

I thank you all for your service to our community. We are stronger because of you.

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