Fit for a King

Published 17 June 2025

UNE alumni active across all spheres of public life have been recognized in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.

Politicians, educators, an oncology nurse, environmentalist and trailblazing activist Wendy McCarthy are among those being celebrated. Wendy, who shared her recollections of UNE during our 70th year, adds a Companion of the Order of Australia to the AO conferred in 1989, acknowledging her eminent service to children and youth, health, the arts, business and the community, as well as to women’s leadership.

A posthumous Medal of the Order of Australia was also awarded to former principal and author Douglas Saxon for his service to education, local history and music.

We also congratulate: