Synod members honoured on Australia Day

Many names of members of the Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of New South Wales and the ACT, again featured in the Australia Day Honours list announced on January 26.

Four Synod members were amongst 441 Australians who were awarded the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia, approved by Her Excellency Quentin Bryce AC, Chancellor of the Order of Australia, in recognition of their service to fellow citizens.

“Awards in the Australian honours system represent the highest level of recognition accorded by our nation for outstanding achievement and service,” Ms Bryce said.

“The Honours announced today recognise community values and celebrate what is important and unifying in Australian life.”

Known Uniting Church members who have been nominated in part of full for their contribution to the church and their community are listed below.*

Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia

Mrs Jessie Elaine BELL, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

For service to music as an organist, and to the community of the Coffs Harbour region.

Organist, Coffs Harbour and Nana Glen Uniting Church, for many years; accompanies Pastor to aged care facilities to provide musical support for services.

Entertained residents with piano and piano accordion recitals, Coffs Harbour Nursing Centre, for over 20 years; compiled reminiscent music programs for residents with dementia.

Mrs Dorothy Elma HORSMAN, 76 Pollux Street, Yass NSW 2582

For service to local government, and to the community of Yass.

Member/Media Contact Officer, Yass Uniting Church, since 2005.

Mr Peter LYNN, 227 Coal Point Road, Coal Point NSW 2283

For service to the community through the Uniting Church in Australia.

Member, Standing Committee, Synod of NSW and ACT, Uniting Church in Australia, since 2008.

Current Member, Church Council Hunter Presbytery; former Chair, Toronto Congregation.

Leadership roles, youth groups and “couples” clubs, various Sydney congregations; including Kuringai Presbytery, Forest Parish and Belrose.

Board Member, UnitingCare Ageing-Sydney Region. since 2003; Board Member, Lucan Care, 1995-2003.

Member, NSW State Board, UnitingCare Aged and Disability Services, 1991-2001; Chairperson, 1994 and 1995.

Board Member, Wesley Gardens, 1978-2001.

Board Member, War Memorial Hospital, since 2010.

Mr Joe MANNIX , PO Box 124, Annandale NSW 2038

For service to the community through advocacy roles with a range of disability and social welfare organisations.

Board Member, Glebe Youth Service, since 1990.

(GYS began in 1989 when a single worker, Brad Roberts, was employed by the Uniting Church part time to perform outreach work with the young people of Glebe.)

Chairperson/Convenor, Special Thanksgiving Church Service to celebrate the Glebe Lands Appropriation Act 1974, 1999.

*We acknowledge there could be others also associated with church activities which are not as obvious and to them we also extend our sincerest congratulations.