Media industry personalities were among the 739 individuals who received awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia this past Australia Day, January 2024. 10’s Sandra Sully, Pinstripe media’s David Koch (Kochie), Notable Media’s Amanda Gome, AdNews‘ Chris Pash, and News Corp’s Penny Fowler, were recognised for their contributions to the media landscape in Australia.
Sandra Sully, a stalwart of Network 10‘s 10 News First team since 1990, received the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her outstanding service to the media, charitable organisations, and the community.
In her 30-year career, Sully has covered a wide array of national and international events, from elections and budgets to the Commonwealth and Olympic Games and major local and global events including the Thredbo landslide rescue and September 11 attacks. Sully was the first woman to co-host the Melbourne Cup/Spring Carnival, a role she filled for seven years.
Sandra Sully said: “It is a privilege to be a journalist and work in a profession which I believe in and its ability to shine the light on inequality and how to bring about change.
“I have always strived to honour my profession and raise the bar with the issues I believe need to be highlighted and where I can make a difference.”
See also: Sandra Sully reveals the surprising reason she nearly quit The Masked Singer before her unmasking
Known for his role as co-host of Sunrise on the Seven Network, David Koch, aka Kochie, was honoured for his significant contributions to media and economic journalism.
Beyond broadcasting, Kochie’s multifaceted impact includes chairing Pinstripe Media, Ausbiz, and Port Adelaide FC, as well as serving as economic director at Compare The Market. His entrepreneurial endeavours and philanthropic initiatives, and leadership in organisations such as DonateLife, further underscore his influence on Australian society.
See also: “All I can say is thank you”: Kochie signs off from Sunrise
Amanda Gome, founder and chief executive officer of Notable Media, was recognised for her substantial contributions to media, business, and women’s empowerment. Her leadership in digital media, coupled with her advocacy for gender equality, reflects her dedication to fostering positive change in the industry and beyond.
Chris Pash, editor of AdNews, was honoured for his service to the media and communications sector. With a diverse background in journalism and publishing, Pash’s advocacy for content creators and environmental causes exemplifies his commitment to driving positive societal change.
Chairman of Herald & Weekly Times at News Corp Australia, Penny Fowler, was also honoured with the Member of the Order of Australia for her contributions to community service. As chair of the Good Friday Appeal for the past decade, Penny has been instrumental in raising millions of dollars for the Royal Children’s Hospital.
Her leadership extends to various cultural institutions, highlighting her unwavering commitment to enriching the fabric of Australian society.
See also: Mediaweek’s Sales Team of the Year: NSW shines for News Corp Australia
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Top Image: Sandra Sully