University of Newcastle staff and alumni recognised in 2026 King’s Birthday Honours
10 University of Newcastle staff and alumni have been recognised for their outstanding contributions in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours.
University of Newcastle Vice Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO commended the achievements of University staff and alumni who were recognised in the prestigious Honours list.
“Each year, the King’s Birthday Honours highlight the extraordinary hard work and dedication of our community,” Professor Zelinsky said.
“In 2026, we are especially proud to celebrate the University’s staff and alumni, whose commitment to excellence, leadership and innovationcontinues to shape the future of our region.
“These honourees embody the very best of our University – not only through their achievements in their respective fields, but also through their deep commitment to our communities.”
The University of Newcastle proudly congratulates all honourees for their remarkable contributions and the lasting impact they continue to make across our communities and beyond.
The University-affiliated recipients include:
Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
- Emeritus Professor Ross Earnest Griffith for significant service to tertiary education, to the textile industry, and to the community.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
- Gregory John Budworth for services to the community through social housing.
- Dr Wesley John Cormick for service to ultrasound and general practice medicine.
- Dr Luke Anthony Coyle for service to haematology.
- Dr Gabor Attilla Major for service to rheumatology.
- Dr Ross Duncan Macpherson for service to medicine as an anaesthetist.
- The late Dr Roger Frank Peters RFD for service to community health, particularly as a psychologist.
Conspicuous Service Cross
- Christopher Patrick Fallon for meritorious devotion to duty as a Works Supervisor at 19th Chief Engineer Works.
Public Service Medal
- Dr Lanny Chor for outstanding public service to oral health service delivery in NSW.
- Nigel John Greenup for outstanding public service to the protection and preservation of Australia’s unique natural environments, and to the people and communities who depend upon them.
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Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.