Five remarkable Australian icons have been awarded Honorary Doctorates from Flinders University for their extraordinary service and contributions that have shaped their communities for the better.

Flinders University Chancellor Mr Stephen Gerlach AM presented the honourees with their degrees, to celebrate the significant contributions that the recipients have made to both local, national and international communities. Seldom awarded, Flinders University Honorary degrees are presented to distinguished members of our community, whose extraordinary service has changed lives.

Honorary Doctorates not only honour the remarkable lives these individuals have all lived, but more importantly the indelible contributions they have made that have shaped their fields and communities for the better.

Recipients come from all walks of life and have made their mark in a variety of different ways but share one common attribute: their contributions have improved lives in the communities they serve.

Maggie Beer AO

Beloved Australian foodie Maggie Beer AO was awarded for her distinguished service to improving food experience and wellbeing outcomes for older Australians and for promoting principles of nutrition and nutritional access through the lifespan. Over some four decades, Maggie has worn many hats – cookbook author, TV star, restaurateur, Board Member, advocate – with a down-to-earth charm and admirable work ethic that cemented her as an Australian icon.

Most recently, during COVID-19 lockdowns, Maggie felt the need to give back to the Australian public, so she started cooking dishes that people would have ingredients for in their pantry, fridge or garden.

Kerry Heysen AM

The achievements of world renowned film producer and Flinders graduate Kerry Heysen AM are well known around the globe, and have earned her a place as one of Australia’s most successful exports. Kerry has contributed millions to the South Australian economy and been responsible for developing some of the greatest cinematic successes of our time, including Shine – a commercial and critical success that won 62 awards around the world.

Kerry has been recognised with an Honorary Doctorate not only for her contributions to her profession, but also for ongoing connection she has had to Flinders University, including as a member of the University’s Council in 2011 and as a current member of the Alumni Awards Selection Committee.

You can read more about Kerry and Maggie’s recognition in The Advertiser or on ABC Radio.

Josh Cavallo

Adelaide United player Josh Cavallo was recognised for his exceptional contributions as a role model in elite men’s sport and a champion for equality in broader society. Paving the way for future generations at just 21 years of age, Josh last year made global headlines and fearlessly cemented himself as a symbol of courage, bravery and inspiration to millions around the world by coming out and making history.

Josh’s announcement was a much needed inspiration for many around the world, including Blackpool FC footballer Jake Daniels, who was encouraged to speak his truth after Josh’s brave announcement and recently came out as gay.

Josh spoke to The Advertiser about the honour, and was also featured in a syndicated Australian Associated Press article.

Dr Dale Lambert PSM FTSE

Internationally respected expert in cyber defence Dr Dale Lambert PSM FTSE received the prestigious honour for his three decades of service at the forefront of defence science, as a visionary leader in driving Artificial Intelligence and automated analysis capabilities that have helped shape the future of his field.

Currently serving as the Chief of Cyber and Electronic Warfare Division in the Defence Science and Technology Group within the Australian Department of Defence, Dale’s career has been spent ensuring that our country’s defences are amongst the best in the world.

Richard Fejo

Darwin Elder Richard Fejo, Uncle Richie as he is known to many, was recognised for his life of incredible contribution to community and overcoming the odds. Uncle Richie is a Larrakia man of direct male descent who has dedicated his life to cross-cultural education and improvement of outcomes for Aboriginal people.

Uncle Richie also plays a pivotal role in educating Flinders University staff and student in the Northern Territory about culture and the importance of understanding and committing to holistic solutions for health in his role as an Elder on Campus.

Uncle Richie was also mentioned in the syndicated Australian Associated Press article about Flinders latest Honorary Doctorates.