Former local NSW Nationals MP, Donald Page, has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
The award, given by Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, was for service to the NSW Parliament, and to the community.
The Byron Bay resident was the member for the Ballina electorate from 1988 until 2015, and served as minister for local government from 2011 till 2014.
He also served as parliamentary secretary to planning and housing, transport and tourism, public works and roads, and as the deputy premier.
Deputy leader
He was deputy leader of the National Party of Australia from 2003 to 2007.
Since 2016, he has been chair of Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers, which describes itself as a ‘leadership voice for the region’.
Mr Page has been involved with community groups such as the Rotary and Lions Clubs, Australian Seabird Rescue, Far North Coast Legacy, Bangalow Music Festival, Returned and Services League of Australia, the Byron and Ballina Hospital Auxiliary, Alstonville Red Cross and the Ballina Rugby Club.
Congratulations Don Page, a well deserved honour. Such a shame you are no longer our local member, the area would be progressing if you were.
The quality of awardees is really quite regrettable.
Phillip Adams is very deserving, but can’t understand how others are get it.
Don Page, despite being in the National Party, was a popular, honest, hardworking politician, who effectively worked and delivered for ALL constituents. Congratulations Don Page, pollies like you are a dying breed.