Rowing Australia congratulates the dedicated individuals recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List for their exceptional service to the sport of rowing and the broader community.
Four outstanding contributors to rowing have been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), acknowledging lifetimes of volunteerism, leadership and passion for our sport.
“On behalf of the entire rowing community, I extend our warmest congratulations to those recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for their service to our sport,” Rowing Australian CEO Sarah Cook OLY said.
“Their contributions, often made quietly and selflessly over many years, have helped shape the culture and success of our sport nationwide. We are proud to see their impact acknowledged at the highest level and thank them for their lasting legacy.”
Rowing Australia pays tribute to:
Dr David Bagnall OAM (ACT) for service to rowing
Dr David Bagnall has devoted more than 50 years to advancing rowing in the ACT.
A life member of ANU Boat Club, Black Mountain Rowing Club and Rowing ACT, David has made his mark as a coach, administrator and fearless advocate.
His coaching career has produced more than 20 national team athletes, while his leadership helped shape the region’s high performance framework and infrastructure.
He served as President of Rowing ACT for nearly a decade and was named ACT Sports Volunteer of the Year in 2013. Today, he remains active as a coach and mentor across several ACT clubs.
Mr Stephen James Handley OAM (NSW) for service to rowing
A decorated Olympian, coach and leader, Stephen Handley has left a profound mark on rowing in New South Wales and beyond.
After representing Australia at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and winning 15 national titles, Stephen channeled his experience into coaching and administration.
He has held senior roles at Rowing NSW, Sydney Rowing Club and Rowing Australia, and coached at premier schools including Newington, The King’s School and St Joseph’s.
Stephen's influence continues through the many athletes and programs he’s shaped and he currently represents NSW on the Rowing Australia Council. He is also a life member of Sydney Rowing Club,
Mr Neville John Kempton OAM (WA) for service to rowing
Neville Kempton has been at the heart of rowing in Western Australia for more than five decades.
A life member, coach and technical leader at Swan River Rowing Club since 1973, Neville has coached King’s Cup crews, World Masters Games competitors and club athletes alike.
Known for his technical expertise in rigging and equipment maintenance, Neville continues to mentor emerging coaches and athletes while also serving in volunteer leadership roles at both club and state levels.
His legacy is one of quiet excellence and lifelong service.
Mr David Cameron Heard OAM (SA) for service to the community through emergency service organisations
David Heard’s contributions to the South Australian community span more than 75 years of service through St John Ambulance, where he is the world’s longest-serving volunteer.
David also holds a special place in the rowing community, having supported the Murray Bridge Rowing Club for over 45 years.
Now serving as the Club’s Patron, his unwavering support and leadership have helped sustain rowing in the Murraylands and beyond.
Rowing Australia also acknowledges:
Professor Kathrine Scott Galloway AM for significant service to the law, education and community. A former President of River City Women’s Rowing Club and member of Cairns Rowing Club, her leadership has extended across education, equity, and inclusion in sport.
Mr Juris Turmanis OAM for service to the Latvian community and to sporting and charitable organisations. A long-time member of Sydney Rowing Club, Juris has contributed to cricket, rugby, rowing, and numerous community and veterans’ causes.
Rowing Australia proudly recognises their contributions and thanks them for their lifelong dedication to the sport.