Swimming legend and renowned film editor receive Queen’s top gong

For significant service to community health as an advocate OLYMPIC swimming legend Dawn Fraser is among more than 1000 Australians honoured for their contributions to Australian life in the Queen’s Birthday honours.

Fraser, who won four Olympic gold medals including three for the 100m freestyle, is among 10 people to receive the top gong, the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC).

“When I opened the letter, the feeling was amazing. It was like winning my first gold medal,’’ she said. “I’m so grateful and it’s a great pleasure and honour.’’

Also receiving the top award today is film editor Jill Bilcock who worked on hits including Muriel’s Wedding, Strictly Ballroom and Moulin Rouge.

Celebrity accountant and Sydney to Hobart skipper Anthony Bell receives the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to sailing.

Kangaroos and Manly rugby league legend Max Krilich was awarded an OAM as was racing driver John Goss, who won Bathurst twice, in a Ford XA GT and a Jaguar XJ-S.

Musicians also featured with Phil Emmanuel, who died last month after a sudden asthma posthumously with an OAM.

In cricket, Neil Harvey, 89, the last surviving member of Don Bradman’s 1948 “Invincibles” team, was awarded an OAM. Paralympian Kurt Fearnley also received an OAM. attack, recognised

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Music historian Glen A Baker, fashion designers Linda Jackson and Jenny Kee, comedian and charity worker Tom Gleisner, and Business Council of Australia chief executive Jennifer Westacott were appointed officers of the Order of Australia (AO).