Patricia Byrne OAM
I would like to offer my sincere thanks to members and friends for their good wishes and the congratulations offered to me following my recent award of the Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division (OAM). As you can imagine when I first received notice of this nomination it came as a great surprise and totally unexpected, and then the subsequent notice the award had been approved, was a real thrill and very humbling.
The notice is given in confidence so I was unable to talk about it with anyone until the Queen’s Birthday June 14, when it was announced.
My involvement in the Association and other organisations has been due to a desire to participate, and hopefully contribute to effecting change within the community enabling people with disability to be part of the community and not segregated. Whilst there are still issues to be addressed, during my life (and I am sure yours) there have been many positive changes that have improved the lives of people with disability.
Being part of a team and with combined voices, change can occur and I would like to acknowledge the many people, who have supported me through that process. The lifelong friendships I have made over the years are greatly valued, and through my involvement within the disability sector I have met some wonderful people.
With love and wonderful memories I think of my parents, Kevin and other family and friends, who are no longer with us, but certainly supported me.
To all concerned, you have played a part I offer my thanks.
Patricia Byrne OAM