The Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP

Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

Member for New England

Media Release

26 January 2024

Australia Day Honours

Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, has congratulated the region’s 2024 Australia Day Award recipients.

Recipients in the New England Electorate include John ‘Wakka’ Williams from Inverell who has been appointed as a Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia in recognition of his significant service to the Parliament of Australia and to the community.

A number of New England residents have received the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division including Susie Dunn of Armidale for services to the community of the New England region, Hans Hietbrink of Guyra for services to the community of the Northern Tablelands region, Richard Mills of Armidale for services to the community of the Armidale and Uralla regions, Rae Parker of Tamworth for services to the law. In addition, Geoff Hanson of Tamworth has received the Medal (ESM) in the Emergency Services Medal Division for NSW State Emergency Service.

Mr Joyce commended this year’s Award recipients.

“It’s always wonderful to see local residents recognised for their tremendous dedication to civic service,” Mr Joyce said.

“These are very distinguished honours and I congratulate all award recipients and thank them for the contributions they have made, and continue to make, in local communities right around the region.”

Anyone can nominate any Australian for an award in the Order of Australia.  If you know of someone deserving recognition, nominate them now at www.gg.gov.au

Media Contact: 0447 307 884