BY DEFINITION, Australia Day honours should be for just that ... Australians.
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They are in recognition of the hard work and dedication to their respective communities and respective fields.
So, then, how does Prince Philip, a Britain who is married to the head of the Commonwealth, be bestowed the highest of Australia Day honours, that of a knighthood?
The dubbing of Sir Prince Philip has, rightfully, enraged not only those pushing for Australia to become a republic who are disappointed about Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s decision to make Prince Philip a knight.
In the wash-up from Monday’s announcement, Liberal backbenchers are considering calling a meeting to discuss the “direction of the team”, with speculation rife about Prime Minister Abbott’s leadership.
Mr Abbott confirmed on Australia Day his decision to knight Prince Philip was another “captain’s pick”, which, to date, have included his paid parental leave scheme, attempt to slash Medicare rebates by $20, and restoration of knights and dames.
Surely, Mr Abbott could have found a more deserving “Australian” citizen to dub a sir or a dame than Prince Philip, who already has so many titles to his name he doesn’t really need another one.
Some inspirational Australians who spring to mind include:
Fiona Stanley, an Australian epidemiologist noted for her public health work and her research into child and maternal health, and birth disorders such as cerebral palsy;
David de Kretser, an Australian medical researcher and former Governor of Victoria between 2006 and 2011, who is an infertility and andrology expert;
Ballarat’s own Michelle McIntosh, who has developed an inhalable compound which stops excessive bleeding in women after childbirth;
Glenn McGrath, former cricket great who has gone on to raise millions of dollars and increased awareness about breast cancer since the death of his wife Jane;
Hugh Jackman, for his contribution to the world of acting, including for his TV, big screen and stage work;
or Graeme Clark, the Australian inventor of the bionic ear, who has helped millions of people around the world hear for the first time.
These are only a few worthy Australians, but there are many more who are more deserving of a knighthood.