Musicians James Reyne, John Schumann, Michael Chapman and Yunupingu have received Australia Day honours from out-going Governor-General Quentin Bryce.
The former Australian Crawl lead singer James Reyne has received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to the performing arts as well as his ongoing support of charity and welfare groups.
James Reyne – Reckless
The late Yunupingu, a former Australian of the year and lead singer of Yothu Yindi, was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC). Yunupingu, who died in 2013, was the first Aboriginal person from Arnhem Land to earn a university degree. The award recognises his success in music, his songwriting and his lifelong work for educating all Australians about the injustice of the Aboriginal community.
Yothu Yindi – Djäpana
Former Redgum singer John Schumann has received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
Redgum – I Was Only 19
Songwriter Michael Chapman also received the OAM. Chapman, from Nambour, Queensland, wrote hits for Suzi Quatro (Can The Can, Devil Gate Drive), Sweet (Wig Wam Bam, Ballroom Blitz), Smokie (Oh Carol, Lay Back In The Arms Of Someone), Mud (Tiger Feet) and Racey (Lay Your Love On Me, Some Girls). He later produced Blondie (Parallel Lines) and The Knack (My Sharona) and wrote ‘The Best’ for Tina Turner.
Suzi Quatro – Can The Can
Actors Geoffrey Rush and Jackie Weaver were also honoured, Rush with the Companion of the Order of Australia and Weaver with the Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).
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