Appointments to the Order of Australia bestow the highest recognition for outstanding achievement and service across a range of fields.

There are two divisions of the Order of Australia: the Civil or General Division and the Military Division.

This Australia Day, 1040 people received the country’s highest honours, including appointments to the Order of Australia. The Order of Australia has four levels: Companion of the Order (AC), Officer of the Order (AO), Member of the Order (AM), Medal of the Order (OAM).

John Wylie AC is one of just seven Australians appointed as a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to the community through leadership in the sporting, cultural, philanthropic and business sectors.

Air Commodore Gregory Frisina AM has been recognised for exceptional service in flying training, aviation training implementation and personnel administration for the Australian Defence Force.

The late WWII Veteran, Jack Bell has been posthumously granted an OAM for service to veterans and their families.

Jack, who was a member at the Camberwell City RSL Sub-Branch, passed away last year aged 103.

Gary Taylor, a member of the Hastings RSL Sub-Branch and Malcolm Carson, the former President of the Waverley Sub-Branch and former State Executive member, have both been awarded an OAM for recognition of their service to veterans and their families.

Benedict Soler has been presented with an OAM for service to the Maltese community. He was instrumental in the development of Melbourne’s Shelter of Peace in the 1990s

In a rather rare set of circumstances, two married couples have been awarded OAMs.

Dorothy and Peter Heard have each been recognised for their service to the community of Numurkah, and Gwenda and Graham Foard have both received OAMs for their service to the community of Balwyn North.

“These awards are a fitting recognition for the commitment and contribution these individuals have displayed over many years across a broad range of disciplines,” says RSL Victoria President Dr Robert Webster OAM.

Governor-General David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) congratulated and thanked all the recipients for their contribution to Australia.

“It has been a challenging two years and the recipients announced today are a reminder and a reflection of the richness of spirit, selflessness and good in our community.”

*If you know of an RSL member who has received a 2022 Australia Day Honour who is not listed here, please contact us at digital@rslvic.com.au