Paramedics, community health leaders and medical specialists are among those recognised for their outstanding service and dedication in the 2022 Australia Day Honours.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath paid tribute to health workers who were today recognised for their efforts to keep Queenslanders safe and healthy.
“I congratulate all Australia Day award recipients, but I especially have deep admiration for the health workers recognised today,” Minister D’Ath said.
“I thank these health workers for their unwavering dedication to Queenslanders.
“Now more than ever, health workers deserve our thanks and recognition for their tireless efforts.
“They have been recognised for helping make Australia the wonderful country it is, and their awards are well-deserved.”
The late Aunty Pamela Mam was honoured as a Member (AM) the General Division of the Order of Australia for her extraordinary services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. Aunty Pam was a fearless champion for better health care in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities during a nursing career spanning more than 60 years.
“Sadly, we lost Aunty Pam in 2020 but her legacy of improving healthcare for First Nations Queenslanders lives on,” Minister D’Ath said.
Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital gastroenterologist Professor Barbara Anne Leggett also was appointed as an AM for her services to gastroenterology, hepatology, and medical research.
Proserpine Hospital senior medical officer Dr Deborah Simmons was awarded a Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia for her services to medicine.
Metro South Hospital and Health Service Board Director Helen Darch and Princess Alexandra Hospital Research Foundation board member Dylys Elizabeth Bertelsen each received an OAM for their services to community health.
Queensland Ambulance Service’s Cairns and Hinterland District Acting Director Rita Kelly and Metro North Clinical Support Officer Crad Smith each received the Ambulance Service Medal (ASM).
Queensland Health’s Associate Deputy Director-General Jasmina Joldic received a Public Service Medal (PSM) for her leadership in delivering critical functions and health policies that have contributed to the state’s successful COVID-19 response.
Visiting medical officers Dr Harry Stalewski (Townsville Hospital), Dr Stephen Godfrey (Gold Coast University Hospital) and Professor Alfred Lam (Gold Coast University Hospital) also received honours.
“These are just a few of the health workers to receive Australia Day honours today,” Minister D’Ath said.
“There are many more across both the public and private health sectors who received well-deserved honours. We’re fortunate to have such skilled, selfless individuals working tirelessly for all Queenslanders.”
