Accolades for community work

Rochedale South resident Duncan Kerslake’s work to support First Nations people throughout Queensland has been recognised.

Duncan received a Public Service Medal in the 2023 Australia Honours List for outstanding service to the development and advancement of Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.

He says the award highlighted the importance of the work he is doing in the community and on country.

An Aboriginal man of Palawa heritage, Duncan currently leads the Queensland Government’s Deadly Innovation Strategy and works alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to drive commercial opportunities and jobs, particularly in new and digital economies.

‘It’s all about creating jobs and economic wealth,’ he says.

‘I work with the community from the ground up and bring in collaborators.’

Duncan has also established several training programs to support the development, sustainability and growth of First Nations owned and operated businesses.

Springwood resident Greg Nothling – one of the founding members of the Rochedale Springwood Lions Club in 1972 – was also recognised in the honours list with an Order of Australia medal.

Division 1 Councillor Lisa Bradley extended her congratulations to Duncan and Greg on behalf of the City of Logan community.

‘It is great to see them recognised for the work they have done, and are continuing to do, to make our city and the world a better place,’ she says.