Order of Australia Medal recipients 2022 & 2023

MIKE HOWELL, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Christian Scott Sutherland OAM FRACS

FRCSEd (OGC 1967)

For his exceptional dedication to medicine as a general surgeon, Christian (Chris) Sutherland was awarded the 2022 Medal (OAM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia.

After completing his medical degree at Melbourne University in 1977, Chris undertook his residency at Geelong Hospital. It was during this time that he developed his deep passion for rural surgery. He pursued his post-graduate studies in Edinburgh, Scotland, specialising in Gastrointestinal, General, and Hand Surgery.

Chris holds esteemed Fellowships from both the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh and the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Additionally, he is a member of the Gastroenterology Society of Australia.

“I think a highlight of my career was our ability to establish a training position in Colac for surgical registrars enabling us to give them experience in rural surgery. We have been successful in recruiting a number of them back to work in Colac.”

After serving the medical profession for an impressive 40 years, Chris retired from surgery in May of this year. However, his commitment to healthcare remains unwavering as he continues to contribute as the Medical Director of Corangamite Surgical.

In his newly-acquired spare time, he looks forward to hiking adventures in Tasmania and the Grampians with his wife, Sue.

Chris said “Receiving this award was a humbling experience. To do what we have achieved in Colac requires commitment from numerous colleagues over the years. I believe the award reflects the work of many people.”

Studying at The Geelong College from 1963 to 1970, Chris was in Calvert House, and a member of the First XI cricket and Athletics team.

David Douglas Wright OAM JP (OGC 1956)

David Douglas Wright (OGC 1956) was recently honoured with the 2023 Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for his outstanding service to the Bendigo community.

Throughout his 50-year career in local government, David generously contributed his time and skills to various sectors in Bendigo, including health, sports, church, the arts, and the Easter Fair Society.

David’s passion for these diverse areas led him to serve as a Board member of the Bendigo Trust, the Amicus Disability Service, and the Boort Hospital. His expertise and leadership were instrumental as he assumed various roles, including Chairman and Treasurer, on numerous committees. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, David has been awarded six Life Memberships. His dedication and accomplishments are further exemplified by his role as the founding member of the Foundation for the Bendigo Community Theatre and Arts. One of his notable achievements was the restoration of the old Capital Theatre, transforming it into a vibrant performing arts space.

Although David modestly admits his lack of sporting prowess during his College years, he attributes his passion for music and drama to

Director of Music, George LogieSmith, who greatly influenced him.

He actively serves as the President of the Bendigo Chorale and has been the organist for various churches for 37 years.

David considers himself a quiet achiever who simply became involved in the community, and was humbled to receive the award.

Part of his legacy includes the establishment of the Bendigo Volunteer Resource Centre in 2002, recognising the significance of skilled volunteers in connecting people and fostering positive change.

His deep connections within the Bendigo community are evident. His grandson, Baxter, a current Year 11 student at College, observed: “You know everyone” when walking with David down the main street.

David takes immense pride in being a loving grandfather to Baxter, Isabella (OGC 2019) and Charlotte (OGC 2021).