Australia Day 2025 Honours List: All the Territorians recognised
A NT leader is one of just six across the nation recognised with the highest distinction for his eminent service to First Nations peoples. From principals to volunteers, former pollies to and a buffalo researcher see the full list of Territorians recognised for their service.
Northern Territory
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A Territorian has been awarded the nation’s highest distinction at this year’s Australia Day honours, First Nations leader Galarrwuy Yunupingu named as one of just six across the country to become Companion of the Order.
Also among those recognised is former Chief Minister Denis Burke, NT Council for Social Services chief Sally Sievers, and buffalo researcher Barry Lemcke.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn congratulated the 732 Australians recognised in the honours.
“Thank you for your work of care and service to our nation,” she said.
“To read recipient stories is to be reminded that contribution to communities across the country, underpinned by care, kindness, respect and love, is what matters most to all Australians, in every sphere of life. Recipients embody the best of us, and we are grateful to all of them.
“This year, we mark the 50th anniversary of Australia’s honours system. We have a wonderful opportunity over the next 50 years of our honours and awards to reflect our generous, successful and modern Australian society.
“To all Australians, nominating and honouring our fellow Australians is a meaningful way of saying, as a nation, thank you.”
See all the Territorians recognised in the Australia Day 2025 Honours list below.
COMPANION OF THE ORDER (AC)
Galarrwuy Yunupingu
The late Mr Galarrwuy Yunupingu was made Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to First Nation Peoples, in particular traditional land ownership, to leadership in economic development initiatives, to fostering reconciliation and respect, and as a custodian of culture and ceremony.
Yunupingu was instrumental in the fight for land rights across the nation and left behind an immense legacy after his death in April 2023.
A respected leader in both political boardrooms and his East Arnhem homeland, Yunupingu truly walked in two worlds.
Brother Djawa Yunupingu described him as “the leader of all leaders”.
“He was a Yolngu man, an Australian – being born from the very bones of the country, he has now returned to our land, to be with our ancestors. He taught us to take our part in the world and to act seriously as Yolngu people – that we are of this country and the country is of us.”
Yothu Yindi Foundation chief executive Denise Bowden said: “I am really fortunate to have been guided by the insight and wisdom of our former Chairman, Galarrwuy Yunupingu, and I’m thrilled his lifetime of achievements is being acknowledged with Australia’s highest honour.
OFFICER OF THE ORDER (AO)
Sally Sievers
Sally Sievers was made Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the law, to social justice and human rights, and to the community of the Northern Territory.
Ms Sievers is chief executive of the NT Council for Social Services and former NT Anti-Discrimination Commissioner.
Starting her career as a lawyer, Ms Sievers joined the Law Society NT in 1989 and has held a range of roles including as acting magistrate, executive committee in the Top End Women’s Legal Service, and as a barrister for Cridlands. She was also the NT’s acting Children’s Commissioner for two years.
Ms Sievers said she was surprised and honoured to be recognised, but owed a lot of her success to her colleagues and the community.
“It’s a pity you can’t share these kinds of awards because a lot of the work I’ve done has been a team effort, working with great people” she said.
“Achieving reform is always about the community coming with you.”
She said highlights were implementing reforms to the NT anti-discrimination act, and helping young Territorians with disabilities prepare to enter onto the NDIS.
“I’ve had so many opportunities in the Northern Territory, for me it’s about having a role in making the Territory continue to be a great place to live.”
MEMBER OF THE ORDER (AM)
Denis Burke
The Honourable Denis Gabriel Burke was made Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory, and to the community.
A former Australian Army officer, Mr Burke served as the Country Liberal Party member for Brennan from 1994 to 2005.
He was Chief Minister from 1999 to 2001, and held several key ministerial portfolios including Attorney-General and Community Health.
In his 25-year military career, he rose to become Commanding Officer of the Darwin-based 2nd Cavalry Regiment and was awarded the Australian Service Medal with Middle East clasp in 1990.
Mr Burke said he was “honoured and very grateful” to be made Member of the Order.
“I did my best and hope I made a difference. I will be forever grateful for the support I received,” he said.
“I recall on many occasions looking out of the aircraft window as I flew to different parts of the Territory at the vastness of this great land, the diversity of its people and the enormous opportunity and responsibility given to me to be instrumental in progressing the welfare of my fellow Territorians.
“My time as Health Minister was a period I particularly valued as we did our best dealing with the complex health issues afflicting Indigenous Territorians. Getting better outcomes in baby’s birth weights with programs targeting women’s health, tackling Kava abuse and dealing with renal failure are programs that delivered small but tangible success that was extremely gratifying to me and the health team.
“Memorable times as Chief Minister included finalising the complex arrangements leading to contract signing for the Alice Springs to Darwin railway, laying the foundation for Bayu Undan gas with Phillips (Petroleum Company) and ensuring Darwin played a pivotal role during the East Timor crisis in hosting the interim government, hosting the initial UN headquarters, supporting the ADF deployment and logistic support and providing shelter and assistance to the thousands of East Timor refugees, including the President Xanana Gusmao.”
MEDAL OF THE ORDER (OAM)
Angelina Butler
Angelina Butler was granted Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community, particularly through emergency response organisations.
Mrs Butler has worked in the training department of St John NT for almost two decades.
During that time, she has supported administration staff, management and trainers, helped create and implement policies and procedures, while always delivering excellent customer service.
Her dedication to St John while battling cancer and the aggressive treatments is not only admirable but also an inspiration to her fellow colleagues.
She is a member of the Order of St John and recently received a 40-year service medal for her volunteer work.
Roslyn Jones
The late Roslyn May Jones was granted Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community of Coomalie Shire.
Mrs Jones was a founder and dedicated member of St John NT’s Batchelor Volunteer Division.
She raised over $40,000 for a Batchelor Ambulance Vehicle to ensure quality care in the rural area.
Mrs Jones was also involved with the Rum Jungle Recreation Club, Rum Jungle Ladies Bowls Club, Batchelor Seventh Day Adventist Church, Batchelor Museum Development Association and more.
Barry Lemcke
Barry Graham Lemcke was granted Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the livestock industry.
Mr Lemcke is a Northern Australian livestock scientist with five decades experience, including a career focus on buffalo management research at the NT Department of Primary Industries and Resources.
He authored the Australian Water Buffalo Manual, and was instrumental in the development of the Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System, Meat and Livestock Australia.
MERITORIOUS
Antoni Kwiatkowski
Antoni John Kwiatkowski of St John Ambulance (NT) was awarded the Ambulance Service Medal.
Over his two decades as a paramedic, Mr Kwiatkowski has displayed care, compassion, and professionalism.
He has received letters and acknowledgments of thanks from members of the public and other medical staff for his outstanding work ethic and critical pre-hospital care in saving lives in challenging circumstances.
In one instance he put the safety of another before his own in order to protect them and was commended for his courage and bravery in going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety of a person in a vulnerable position.
He is a valued mentor to paramedics and continues to support the triple-0 call centre, where he began his journey.
Jamie Seib
Jamie Patrick Seib of the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal.
Since joining the Borroloola Fire and Emergency Response Group in March 2018, Mr Seib has demonstrated unwavering commitment and exemplary service.
Mr Seib quickly became a pillar of the team, and in 2019, he took on the role of captain.
In March 2024, during Tropical Cyclone Megan, Mr Seib’s leadership was instrumental in maintaining fire response and rescue capabilities.
He played a crucial role in restoring the town’s power supply and operated the NTFRS flood boat to protect residents from rising waters.
Robert Creek
Robert William Creek of the Department of Corporate and Digital Development was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding public service to the Northern Territory public sector.
Mr Creek joined the Northern Territory administration on June 4, 1973 as a trainee draftsman, marking the beginning of his long and recognised career in the public service. His career spanned over 50 years, during which he made substantial contributions to information technology, mentored young professionals, and played a crucial role in various government initiatives.
Mr Creek has made significant contributions to the IT field in the Northern Territory. He has played key roles in various initiatives, including taking mapping from paper to what is known as geographic information systems (GIS) or spatial technology, implementing major IT systems in utilities, billing, and providing influential leadership in the Northern Territory Government’s initial transition to IT outsourcing over 25 years ago and more recently leading the implementation of transformational government business systems. Despite numerous attempts at retirement, Mr Creek continues to work and is highly respected and loved for his integrity, dedication, and impact on the community.
Frederick Hunter
Frederick William Hunter of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding public service in protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the Kakadu National Park.
Mr Hunter is the first local Indigenous Australian ranger to achieve the rank of chief ranger in the history of Kakadu National Park (the park).
Mr Hunter was involved in a workplace helicopter accident and sustained multiple spinal fractures and other injuries. Driven by his dedication to his profession and the protection of Country, Mr Hunter returned to full-time duties as a ranger at the park within 12 months, after rehabilitation and learning to walk once again.
Mr Hunter has headed up a new section, Outstation Work Crew, where he has actively worked to engage disengaged Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth in the region, by helping to support and guide them into obtaining employment with the park.
Mr Hunter is a mentor and shining example to younger Indigenous rangers. He is a senior traditional man and well-respected figure in the Kakadu and West Arnhem regions. He is committed to his work, mentoring of younger staff and his dealings with stakeholders are considered beyond what is expected of a non-executive level officer and reflect extremely well on the Australian public sector as a whole.
Cindy-Lee McDonald
Cindy-Lee McDonald of the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding public service to the Northern Territory’s emergency management response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ms McDonald’s outstanding leadership, resilience, and professionalism along with the sustained contribution of her time and energy to the Northern Territory’s Emergency Management response efforts, helped ensure that Australians were kept safe throughout the pandemic.
During a time of significant uncertainty and ever-changing conditions Ms McDonald effectively worked with transport providers and other key stakeholders such as the Northern Territory Police Force, NT Health, and federal counterparts across the Northern Territory to co-ordinate the transportation of Territorians. This included those considered vulnerable, medical supplies and equipment, and critical goods; as well as returning Australians requiring quarantine.
Susan Trimble
Susan Elizabeth Trimble of the NT Department of Education was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding public service to the education sector in the Northern Territory.
Mrs Trimble is co-principal at Gunbalanya School.
She is a highly experienced professional educator with over 30 years’ experience in a variety of sectors within the education system.
She is a principal, classroom leader and has led the System for School Improvement team, which supports literacy and numeracy in schools.
Mrs Trimble’s career encompasses working to exemplary teaching standards, the completion of reporting requirements, and the use of sound data capture and analysis to drive improvement. She has demonstrated her leadership through curriculum innovation and representation within and across sectors and regions. This includes the implementation of the Australian Curriculum and Assessment and Reporting Authority requirements, and mentoring staff and emerging leaders.
MILITARY DIVISION
Michael Cunnington
Chief Petty Officer Michael John Cunnington was awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for meritorious performance of duty in the field of Navy Seamanship, Boarding Operations and Gunnery.
Hugh Grogan
Lieutenant Colonel Hugh Michael Grogan was awarded a Conspicuous Service Cross for outstanding achievement in enhancing Australian Defence Force preparedness planning and governance.
Katelyn Thorne
Major Katelyn Clare Thorne was awarded a Conspicuous Service Medal For meritorious achievement in streamlining operational reporting, systems administration and governance for the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation on Operation PALADIN from July 2022 to July 2023.
Ernesto Sanchez
Leading Seaman Ernesto De Joya Sanchez Jr was awarded a Conspicuous Service Cross for outstanding achievement in imagery and public affairs over multiple regional presence deployments in HMAS Arunta, Ballarat, Supply, and Toowoomba from 2020 to 2023.
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Originally published as Australia Day 2025 Honours List: All the Territorians recognised
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