BRUCE Townsend has been recognised on the Australia Day Honours List for his service to the Raymond Terrace community.
Mr Townsend was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division.
Fellow members of the Lions Club of Raymond Terrace, in which Mr Townsend is a long-time member and past president, describe him as a “a caring, compassionate and thoughtful person.”
“Bruce has dedicated many years to supporting our community through his involvement with Raymond Terrace Lions, St Vincent de Paul, HealthOne, Raymond Terrace Community Preschool, and St Brigid’s Church,” the club shared after news of his honour became public.
“He is also well-known and fondly remembered as the former proprietor of Townsend Pharmacy, where he served generations of local families with care and professionalism.
“We are incredibly proud to call him one of our own.”
This year’s Australia Day list, announced by Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, recognises 949 Australians and included awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards, and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service.
The list includes people recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious, distinguished and conspicuous honours.
“Throughout 2025, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Australian honours system and the people who, for the past half-century, have epitomised the best of Australia.
“The qualities and accomplishments of this year’s honourees reflect Australia’s values for service, community, kindness, curiosity, tenacity, and care.
“As the list so vividly showcases, so many Australians continue to give the best of themselves across many endeavours, in the interest of others.”
Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at the Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.
By Sue STEPHENSON
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