A hearty congratulations goes out to the APRA AMCOS members who were recognised for their service to the arts, music, education and the broader community in the 2021 Australia Day Honours. Rapper, performer, songwriter and 2019 Young Australian of the Year Danzal Baker, known better as Baker Boy, was honoured with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to the performing arts. He received multiple nominations at the 2019 APRA Music Awards in the categories of Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year and Urban Work of the Year ('Marryuna' and 'Mr La Di Da Di'). Danzal shared a poignant statement on his socials about Australia Day recognition:
"I’m greatful for this recognition, and look forward to being able to share and celebrate it, but I do not wish to comment any further at this stage as I am in mourning for Invasion Day. I have spent the day peacefully marching the streets of Narrm and look forward to a time where we celebrate our country, our people and their achievements on a different day out of respect for all of my First Nations brothers and sisters." - Baker Boy
Legendary songwriter Graeham Goble, who penned beloved hits including 'Reminiscing' as a founding member of Little River Band, was also honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia. He posted on his Facebook page, "It is such a great honour to be awarded the medal of the Order of Australia. Writing, recording and performing my songs has been my life’s joy."
We'd also like to celebrate Australian of the Year honourees Dr. Richard Walley, who was named WA's Senior Australian of the Year for his work in championing Aboriginal culture, and SA Young Australian of the Year nominee Tori Marshall, co-founder of Lift Up Voices.
APRA AMCOS members receiving 2021 Australia Day Honours are:
Professor Robert Constable
Member (AM) in the General Division
For significant service to music education, to performance, and to composition
Lorrae Desmond
Member (AM) in the General Division
For significant service to the performing arts as an actor, entertainer and singer
Danzal Baker (Baker Boy)abilit
Medal (OAM) in the General Division
For service to the performing arts as a singer and musician
Mark Ginsburg
Medal (OAM) in the General Division
For service to the Jewish community, and to music
Graeham Goble
Medal (OAM) in the General Division
For service to the performing arts as a singer, songwriter and producer
David Helfgott
Medal (OAM) in the General Division
For service to the performing arts as a concert pianist
Ray Pereira
Medal (OAM) in the General Division
For service to the performing arts as a percussionist, performer and composer
Suzanne Thompson
Medal (OAM) in the General Division
For service to music education in Queensland