Deakin University celebrates 2015 Australia Day honours

Deakin University has congratulated members of its community who were recognised in this year's Australia Day Honours.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander said she was delighted to see many of Deakin's friends and family acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to society.

"Each and every one has enriched the community and we are very proud of the impact they have made," Professor den Hollander said.

"Deakin is honoured to recognise the past and present staff, friends and alumni for their achievements."

The Australia Day 2015 Honours List included Deakin supporter and foundation board member, Dr Frank Costa, recognised as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to the Geelong community. The order acknowledges Dr Costa's ongoing commitment and contributions to the region's sports, business, religious, medical, educational and social welfare organisations.   

Several Deakin staff have also been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service worthy of particular recognition.

Mrs Glenys Phillpot (OAM), Deakin University Council member, was hailed for her contributions to the Warrnambool community. In addition to her time as Warrnambool Mayor, Mrs Phillpot has raised funding for a local cancer care centre and currently serves as president of the Warrnambool and District Historical Society and is the Chair of the South West Learner to Probationary Steering Committee.

Mrs Elizabeth Barraclough was appointed an OAM for service to conservation and the environment and as a volunteer educator, while Mrs Judith Ryles, former Senior Lecturer in Nutrition, was honoured for her service to the community of Melbourne.

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) honours were also bestowed on former staff member Emeritus Professor Peter Juliff and honorary staff member Adjunct Professor Betty Kitchener; Professor Juliff for his significant service to information technology as a pioneer educator and through professional organisations and Professor Kitchener for her service to the community through mental health support, research and education programs.

Deakin alumni have also been recognised for their extraordinary contributions to Australian communities in the 2015 Honours List, including Air Commodore Robert Lawson OAM, Mr Walter Synot OAM, Mr Richard Davies OAM, Mr Peter Lewis AM, Brigadier Daniel McDaniel AM, Colonel Scott Winter AM, Wing Commander Benjamin Main AM, Mr Raymond Burton (Public Service Medal), Colonel Wade Stothart DSC, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Barta CSC, Colonel Murray Thompson CSC and Captain Wendy Malcolm Ran CSM.

"All of these wonderful Australians have contributed to their communities and the honours are so very well deserved, and we send congratulations to them all," Professor den Hollander said.