Legendary cricketer Mike Whitney is among several extraordinary Australians who have been included on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List this year.

The list, which honours those who have made a significant contribution to the community, includes nearly 1000 Australians from all walks of life, from famous actors to journalists.

Former Australian cricketer and TV personality Mike Whitney has been made a member of the Order of Australia for his contribution to cricket and the broadcast media.

He tells John Stanley he’s dedicating the award to his mum.

“I was brought up in just a normal Australian family, no airs and graces about us, John. My father was a truck driver who actually passed away when I was 16.

“My dear old mum picked the reigns up and stepped up to the plate.

“Without her, I’d be nothing.”

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National mental health commissioner Lucy Brogden has also been honoured for her outstanding contribution to mental health advocacy.

She has spent much of her life campaigning for workplace mental health after her husband, former NSW opposition leader John Brogden, attempted suicide while in office in 2005.

She tells John Stanley she’s happy to receive the award, but also recognises that we have a long way to go.

“It’s an exciting day, but it’s also a day where you’re very conscious of the shoulders that you stand on to get to this place, to take time to reflect on the work that has been done and really appreciate how much more there is to do.

“It was so pleasing to look at that list and particularly see the number of people working in the mental health space.

“There’s many that don’t get that recognition, but their hard work is invaluable.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview

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