2023 King’s Birthday Honours
Published Wed 14 Jun 2023
Congratulations go to the six amazing individuals who have been recognised for their service to Scouting and their communities in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.
The awards have shown the impact our current and former leaders have had within the Movement over a significant period.
These outstanding role models have shown us what it means to lead, mentor and make a positive impact.
Their dedication and leadership have inspired us to embrace adventure, develop important skills and create change in our communities.
Chief Commissioner Lloyd Nurthen commended the recipients for their recognition on the Honours List.
“These awards are recognition of extraordinary contributions to the community over an extended period,” he said.
“Thank you to all the recipients for the sustained efforts they have made in the development of our Movement.
“Thanks also goes to their families and friends for their support and understanding.”
Ormonde Butler OAM, of Moree, was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).
Mr Butler’s appointment for significant service to the community through charitable and volunteer organisations included his significant work with Scouts NSW, where he was an assessor on the training team from 2003 to 2014, before becoming an honorary solicitor in 2011 and life councillor in 2021.
He was awarded his Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2003 and is also a recipient of the Silver Kangaroo in 2007.
Former District Scout Leader for the Newcastle Hunter District The Honourable Graham Mullane was also appointed as an AM.
Justice Mullane was appointed for significant service to the judiciary, the law and the community. A Family Court judge in Newcastle for 22 years, as well as an acting District Court Judge, Justice Mullane was heavily involved in Scouting in the Newcastle Hunter District since the 1970s. He served in many leadership roles between 1974 and 2001, including as Scout Leader at 1st Adamstown. He was recognised with a Scout Association Medal of Merit in 1994.
The Honours List also saw four current and former members awarded with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), including:
Gregg Barr-Jones – for service to the community through a range of organisations.
Mr Barr-Jones has been a Regional Commissioner for Sydney North since 2020 and was the Group Leader for 1st Allambie Heights Scouts Group from 2013 to 2020. He received a Special Service Award in 2018.
Sandra Walker – for service to youth through Scouts
Mrs Walker has been a volunteer at 1st Seaforth Sea Scouts since the 1990s, starting as an Adult Helper from 1994 to 1996, before becoming a Group Leader in 1996. She has also been a Venturer Leader since 2005. She was awarded the Silver Koala in 2020.
Carol James – for service to the community of Goulburn Mulwaree
Ms James is dedicated to her community, serving as a Cub Scout Leader at Goulburn Scout Group from 1993 to 2013, as well as a District Commissioner from 2005 to 2010.
Diana Moehead – for service to youth through Girl Guides and to the community
Mrs Moehead was a member of Scouts NSW for 27 years. She worked as a caterer at the Australian Scout Jamboree at Camden Air Base in 1988 and was a Wardrobe Volunteer for the Hornsby Gang Show for more than 20 years. She was also awarded the Silver Arrowhead Excellent Service Medal from Scouts Australia.
The Governor-General His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) congratulated all those recognised.
“Recipients have made substantial contributions and had a significant impact at the local, national or international level,” he said.
“Some are volunteers, others have had a remarkable impact in professional roles – many have done both.
“They are all inspiring and their service is valued by us all.”
The King’s Birthday Honours recognised 22 members from Scouts Australia, including the six from NSW, amongst the 1192 recipients, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service.
