I acknowledge and celebrate four remarkable members of my community who were recently recognised in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours. The Blue Mountains is home to extraordinary people who quietly dedicate themselves to serving others, strengthening our community and making a lasting difference in the lives of those around them. The honours awarded this year recognise that spirit of service and commitment. Firstly, I congratulate Kay Burton, OAM, who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to swimming. For many years Kay has devoted herself to the sport, helping to nurture talent, encourage participation and foster a strong and inclusive swimming community. Her contribution extends far beyond the pool, inspiring generations of swimmers and volunteers alike. That honour is a fitting recognition of a lifetime of dedication and achievement.

I also congratulate Dr Lana Leslie-Henfling, OAM, who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to the Indigenous community in a range of roles. Dr Leslie-Henfling has dedicated countless hours to advancing the health, wellbeing and empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Her work has made a profound contribution to social justice, health equity and community wellbeing. Her recognition in the King's Birthday Honours is richly deserved. I extend my sincere congratulations to Peter Bennett, AFSM, who has been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal for his outstanding service to the NSW Rural Fire Service over more than five decades. Peter's unwavering commitment to protecting communities has seen him respond to major incidents across the Blue Mountains, New South Wales and beyond. The courage, leadership and dedication shown by Peter throughout his service exemplify the very best of our emergency services personnel.

Finally, I congratulate Sergeant Sally Cox, APM, who was awarded the Australian Police Medal for her exceptional contribution to policing and community safety over more than 40 years of service. As the longest serving female police officer in the NSW Police Force, Sergeant Cox has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and commitment, particularly in child protection and domestic and family violence investigations. Her victim‑centred approach and advocacy for those affected by crime have made a meaningful and lasting difference to countless lives.

Those honours remind us that strong communities are built by people who choose to serve others, often without seeking recognition and often behind the scenes. Whether through sport, community health, emergency services or policing, those recipients have each contributed enormously to the wellbeing and resilience of our region, our State and the beautiful Blue Mountains. On behalf of the people of the Blue Mountains, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Kay Burton, Dr Lana Leslie-Henfling, Peter Bennett and Sergeant Sally Cox. We are incredibly proud of their achievements, grateful for their service and delighted to see their contributions recognised at the highest level.