The Society extends its warmest congratulations to Brian Lulham, Margaret Wheeler, Denis Walsh, and Michael Lynch as recipients of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) as part of the King’s Birthday Honours on Monday 8th June, 2026. This distinguished honour recognizes their decades of service to the community and steadfast commitment to the St Vincent de Paul Society.  

Across 21 years with the Balmain St Augustine’s Conference, Brian’s generosity and quiet dedication have made a profound and lasting difference. This award stands as a tribute to the deep respect he has earned and his continuation of the mission of serving Christ through the poor.

Margaret’s leadership within the New Lambton St Therese Conference, her tireless work at the Islington Centre Op-Shop, and her extraordinary service since 1971 reflect a life defined by compassion, humility, and remarkable perseverance. Few embody such wholehearted and consistent generosity.

Since joining the Society in 2005, Denis has demonstrated his dedication to strengthening the Society’s mission and supporting those in need. For more than two decades, his leadership across roles – including Conference Secretary, Regional Council President, Wollongong Central Council President, and NSW State President – reflects his integrity and unwavering commitment, standing as an inspiration for others.

This recognition highlights Michael’s long-standing dedication, compassion, and community spirit. Since his involvement with the Parkes Conference in 2014, notwithstanding 31 years prior to that commencing in Ireland in 1961, Michael has worked as the Social Justice Representative for the Wilcannia Forbes Central Council since 2018, along with his service to the Catholic Diocese of Wilcannia Forbes, the Veterans Gold Club, and the Parkes Prostate Cancer Support Group, reflecting a life devoted to helping others.

Together, these four recipients embody the heart of the Society: faith in action, compassion in service, and offering “a hand up” to people in need. Their OAM honours not only their individual achievements but also the enduring spirit of community that defines the St Vincent de Paul Society.