MEDIA RELEASE
9 June 2026
Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace MP, has congratulated six local residents recognised in the King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List, describing the recipients as outstanding Australians whose service has enriched communities across the Sunshine Coast, Queensland and the nation.
Mr Wallace said the honours reflected the remarkable depth of talent, leadership and community spirit found throughout the Fisher electorate.
“The King’s Birthday Honours are among the highest forms of recognition our nation can bestow, and I am delighted to see six Fisher residents acknowledged for their outstanding contributions,” Mr Wallace said.
“Whether through science, conservation, education, the arts, photography or community service, each recipient has dedicated themselves to making a positive difference in the lives of others.”
Dr Hope O’Chin AM of Kings Beach was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the Indigenous community as an artist and educator.
Dr Rebecca Spindler AM of Maleny was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to conservation science, wildlife reproduction research and biodiversity protection.
Judith Crighton OAM of Shelly Beach received the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to conservation and wildlife.
Jacqueline Gasson OAM of Ilkley received the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the arts as a ceramicist.
Neville Male OAM of Wurtulla received the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to photography.
Christopher Symonds OAM of Montville received the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community of Queensland, recognising more than five decades of volunteer service and leadership through Lions Clubs across Queensland. A former member of the Royal Australian Navy, Mr Symonds has spent 53 years serving communities throughout Queensland, including assisting with cyclone recovery efforts, raising funds for Blue Nurses vehicles, supporting charitable causes and helping provide meals for disadvantaged children in Far North Queensland.
Mr Wallace said Mr Symonds’ recognition was a fitting example of the selfless service demonstrated by so many volunteers across the Sunshine Coast.
“Chris has spent decades quietly serving others, whether through disaster recovery, community fundraising, supporting vulnerable Queenslanders or mentoring fellow volunteers through Lions,” Mr Wallace said.
“After serving our nation in the Royal Australian Navy, he continued giving back through community service, helping improve the lives of countless Queenslanders along the way.
“His contribution, and that of each of this year’s recipients, reminds us that strong communities are built by people who are willing to put others before themselves.”
Mr Wallace said all six recipients had made their communities proud through years of dedication and service.
“Dr Hope O’Chin, Dr Rebecca Spindler, Judith Crighton, Jacqueline Gasson, Neville Male and Christopher Symonds have each made an extraordinary contribution in their respective fields,” Mr Wallace said.
“Their achievements demonstrate the incredible talent, generosity and community spirit that exists right across the Sunshine Coast.
“On behalf of the people of Fisher, I congratulate all six recipients on this well-deserved recognition and thank them for their outstanding service to our community, Queensland and our nation.”
[ENDS]
Media are invited to attend Mr Wallace’s office for interviews and cutaways as he congratulates Mr Symonds in person tomorrow (10 June) morning 9-9:30am.
Media Contact: Brendan West – 0402 556 646 – Brendan.west@aph.gov.au