2018 Pilbara Australia Day honourees

Dampier stalwart John Lally has been announced a recipient of a Medal of the Order of Australia on today’s Australia Day Honours list.

Mr Lally was recognised for his service to local government and to the community of Karratha.

The Pilbara educator and leader arrived in Dampier for a stopover on a work trip in 1987, and has since worked tirelessly to advocate for improving the city of Karratha.

Mr Lally has worked in the roles of deputy mayor, Karratha and Districts Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive, Hampton Harbour Boat and Sailing Club commodore and serving on several school boards.

Mr Lally’s dedication led him to start up a camp school in Dampier- which provided children with the opportunity to learn kayaking, sailing, and fishing through an experiential learning process.

He also set up a naval cadets unit and a centre for whale research, which has grown to become a Statewide institute.

A medal of Australia Fire Service was also awarded to Pilbara resident Mr Raymond Bonner.

Mr Bonner was recognised for his services to the Newman community, particularly the Newman Volunteer Fire and Rescue.