A navy officer who has been training cadets for 50 years and a community leader, author, and former deputy mayor have both been awarded an OAM as part of the King’s Birthday Honours.
Former deputy mayor Ian Hamilton and Lieutenant Commander Paul Kelly of Mackay Navy Cadets have both been awarded an Order of Australia in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours List.
And while the two Mackay region recipients were men, the 2023 OAM list has made history as the first with more women receiving honours than men.
Mr Hamilton, the former managing director of Lamberts Economic Stores, said he was “humbled” by the award, but he knew many others who were also deserving of the honour.
Former deputy mayor Ian Hamilton has received an OAM for his years of civic service in Mackay. Photo: Contributed
“I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity through my life to make an active contribution to our community,” Mr Hamilton said.
“I wish to thank the person who nominated me for this award.
“I also acknowledge and thank Valerie Janet Hamilton OAM, my wife, whose example and support for me over the last 60 years encouraged by involvement in community affairs.
“We celebrate our diamond anniversary on July 13, so we will have a double celebration.”
Lieutenant Commander Paul Christopher Kelly received an OAM as part of 2023 King’s Birthday Honours celebrations. Photo: Contributed
LCDR ANC Kelly has worked with Royal Australian Navy cadets for more than 50 years, as well as volunteering for the SES during emergencies.
Still “overawed” by the OAM, he wanted to thank his colleagues and friends for their support throughout his long career – especially his wife Lesley.
“(Lesley is) in a non-uniform position doing logistics … there’s always been that support,” Lt Cdr Kelly said.
“I’d like the thank people right across the board.
“(An OAM) is not something I’ve ever sought … I feel very privileged, make no mistake about that.
“I’ve had this idea in my head for a while to just take your turn to do things (like SES) … to take a turn … have a go.”