Claire Clutterham (Sturt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Nine residents of Sturt were recognised on Australia Day 2026 for their outstanding service, commitment and dedication to the community, to others and to this great country. The first six amazing individuals I will speak about now were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia.

Mr Peter Wallace of Glenside was recognised for exceptional service to community health through his leadership roles at the National Heart Foundation, as executive director for the South Australian division and as chief executive officer.

Mr Jean El Kfoury of Newton was recognised for services to taekwondo, including teaching critical self-defence skills to women and girls.

Mrs Kay Collas of Leabrook had her 20-year teaching career recognised alongside her service to St Peter's Cathedral through leadership, volunteer work and support of the St Peter's Cathedral Music Foundation.

Mr Patrick Bourke, also of Leabrook, was recognised for his services to the community through public-speaking coaching, including to local schools in Sturt, such as Seymour College, Prince Alfred College and Loreto College Marryatville. His work has increased confidence, resilience and almost a love of public speaking in his students.

The professional achievements of Dr David Heilbronn of Fullarton in the field of defence science are extensive. His leadership roles within the Defence Science and Technology Group, including serving as chief of maritime operations and electronic warfare, demonstrate a distinguished career of national significance.

Finally, the late Mr William Quinlan-Watson, formerly of Newton, was recognised for his outstanding service to the community of Robe, demonstrated through his leadership on the district council, as both chairman and councillor, and through his pivotal role in establishing the Robe Customs House Maritime Museum. Vale, William.

Mr Simon Kirkmoe of Burnside was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal for his leadership and dedication at the SA Metropolitan Fire Service and as a longstanding volunteer with the SA Country Fire Service. A key achievement was Mr Kirkmoe's pivotal role in the statewide road crash rescue review and the interagency training reforms that followed.

Receiving the Emergency Services Medal was Mr David Potter of Rostrevor, who was recognised for his career with the SA Metropolitan Fire Service. In particular, his service during the catastrophic 2019-20 bushfire season, where he was deployed to Kangaroo Island and New South Wales, was acknowledged.

Finally, Chief Superintendent Stephen Howard of Beaumont was awarded the Australian Police Medal in acknowledgement of his leadership in seeking to improve key policing processes, with his work strengthening both operational practice and justice outcomes.

I congratulate all.