Linda Harris receives honours for longstanding service to her community of Tiaro.

An illustrious career in politics and years of passionate advocacy for the rural community has earned a leading voice of the region an Order of Australia Medal.

Mrs Linda Harris has been awarded Order of Australia for her long-standing service to the Tiaro community, as local politician, agricultural leader, and valued community member.

A valued Fraser Coast community member, former local politician and a leading voice to the cane farmers of the region has been awarded an Order of Australia honour.

Linda Harris served an illustrious 14-year career as councillor, deputy mayor and then finally mayor of the then Tiaro Shire Council.

During this time she managed the amalgamation of the council into the Fraser Coast Regional Council, where she served as a councillor for another four years. She has also been a member of LNP since 1985 and is a former state vice-president.

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Mrs Harris has taken up numerous leadership positions in the community, serving as four-time president of the Maryborough branch of the Inner Wheel Australia, a women’s branch of The Rotary Society; as Secretary of the Tiaro and District Chamber of Commerce; and as director for the Australian Cane Farmers Association.

Her retirement has not halted her involvement in the community.

Mrs Harris continues to be a valued member of Tiaro, taking up secretarial and presidential positions within the community centre, hall and craft cottage.

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Mrs Harris continues to share her knowledge and passion for Tiaro as a volunteer at the Tiaro Information Centre.

The Order of Australia is given out each Australia Day and recognises key community members who have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional achievement.