2009 Queensland Greats recipients
The Queensland Greats honoured in 2009 were:
Philip Bacon AO
Philanthropist
Philip Bacon AO is a well-regarded art dealer, patron and philanthropist. He established Philip Bacon Galleries in 1974, which plays an educational and commercial role in the thriving Brisbane art scene. The gallery has established itself as Brisbane’s leading commercial gallery and attracted clients and artists from around the nation. Philip is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most successful commercial gallery dealers and has dedicated his service to Queensland through roles on boards of cultural authorities, universities and foundations.
Bill Bristow AM
Angel Flight founder
Bill Bristow AM is a humanitarian who founded the charity Angel Flight Australia. Each year Angel Flight helps thousands of rural Australians in medical and financial need through the provision of free, non-emergency flights. In addition to previous roles including Managing Director of BCM Partnership, Bill has devoted a great deal of his time and energy establishing and maintaining Angel Flight. He has demonstrated passion and persistence as his charity continues to grow.
Kevin (Kev) Carmody
Singer, songwriter and educator
Kev Carmody is a renowned singer, songwriter and educator who has worked tirelessly as an Aboriginal advocate promoting awareness of Indigenous issues through his music and academic achievements. After releasing several critically acclaimed albums, Kev was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Southern Queensland in 2008 and inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2009. Kev continues to inspire people with his passionate songwriting and storytelling, and his years of service as an educator, writer and producer.
Dr Robyn Rodwell
Medical scientist
Dr Robyn Rodwell is an acclaimed medical scientist who has worked tirelessly in support of the Queensland Cord Blood Bank at the Mater Hospital. Through research, development and facilitating extensive community fundraising and support, Robyn’s unwavering determination has benefited patients in Queensland and around the world.
Anthony Ryan
Service to community
Anthony Ryan established Eddie’s Street Van and Paddie’s Van to assist the homeless, street kids and elderly of Brisbane. Commencing with two days a week, the programs have grown to provide assistance to the community every day. Anthony has also reached beyond Australia’s shores to South Africa with the development of a foundation to assist underprivileged children. Anthony has networked and devoted his talent and time to empower others to reach out to those in need.
Blue Care
Caring for Queenslanders
Blue Care has grown from one Blue Nurse in Brisbane back in 1953 to Australia’s largest not-for-profit provider of community and residential aged care, and one of Queensland’s largest employers. Blue Care’s staff and volunteers make more than 2.5 million visits every year to the frail, aged, people with a disability and those needing help after leaving hospital. As well as providing nursing, personal and allied health support, domestic assistance and social support, Blue Care has a range of in-home and centre-based respite, nursing homes, palliative care and carer support programs.