Background Image

Queensland scientists and artists recognised in Australia Day awards

Leading scientists and artists were among a group of more than 100 Queenslanders recognised in today’s 2018 Australia Day Honours List.

Minister for the Environment, Great Barrier Reef, Science and the Arts Leeanne Enoch congratulated all those recipients whose professional dedication and creative talents were recognised.

Gender equality advocate in science and renowned expert in scientific research Professor Jennifer Louise Martin was appointed as a Companion (AC) in the General Division – the highest Australia Day honour to be awarded.

Professor Martin is receiving this honour for her eminent service to science, and to scientific research, particularly in the field of biochemistry and protein crystallography applied to drug-resistant bacteria.

A number of Queensland Science and environment management leaders were also appointed Officers (AO) in the General Division, including Emeritus Professor Shelley Mary Burgin, Emeritus Professor Denis Ivan Crane and Colin Creighton.

Emeritus Professor Burgin was acknowledged for her significant service to environmental science and education as an academic, author and mentor, and to zoology and conservation.

Emeritus Professor Denis Ivan Crane was recognised for his significant service to education in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology, as an academic and researcher, and to scientific bodies.

Meanwhile, Mr Creighton earned a place on the list for his significant service to environmental science and natural resource management, particularly to marine biodiversity, coastal ecology, fisheries and sustainable agriculture.

Musician Russell Morris, based on the Gold Coast, who hit number one with his 1969 psychedelic rock classic The Real Thing, was appointed a Member (AM) in the General Division. Mr Morris’ most recent record, 2015’s Red Dirt – Red Heart, won an ARIA for Best Blues and Roots Album.

Brisbane-based visual artist Professor Pat Hoffie was also made a member for her distinguished 40-year career in the arts and education.

A former Professor at the Queensland College of Art at Griffith University, she has been a writer and curator, and held positions on a number of state and national boards and committees, including the Australia Council for the Arts, Asialink, the National Association of the Visual Arts, and the Institute of Modern Art.

Three leading Queensland music and arts educators – Andrea Messenger, Helen Mullins and Dr Roslyn Dunbar Wells – were awarded a Medal (OAM) in the General Division.

Founder and director of the Western Suburbs String Orchestra (WSSO) since 1989, Ms Messenger was recognised for her services to Brisbane schools in helping foster a love of classical music among schoolchildren.

Toowoomba dance teacher and curriculum writer Helen Mullins was awarded the honour for her outstanding public service to the arts and education.

Finally, Dr Roslyn Dunbar-Wells, a Gold Coast-based singer and music teacher, was recognised for her services to the performing arts, including being a part of over 4000 opera, operetta, TV and concert events around the world.