Mr Paul Lemmon has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in The King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List for service to surf lifesaving.

For more than four decades, Paul has made an outstanding contribution to surf lifesaving as a competitor, coach, mentor and volunteer. His service has spanned local, state, national and international levels, helping strengthen both sporting excellence and community participation.

A former professional Ironman and highly accomplished masters athlete, Paul has represented Australia internationally, earned championship success across pool rescue and surf sports competition, and dedicated countless hours to coaching and mentoring others through Surf Life Saving.

Paul believes the greatest impact of organisations such as Surf Life Saving and Masters Swimming extends beyond competition and safety.

“Community service creates strong social networks. These groups help people stay active, connected, and capable while contributing positively to society,” he explains.

His commitment to service has been shaped by the values instilled by his parents and reinforced through years of involvement in sport.

“My parents have been a major influence through the values they taught me about commitment, helping others, and always doing my best,” Paul says.

He also credits coaches, teammates and volunteers who demonstrated the importance of inclusion and community throughout his journey.

Reflecting on the importance of recognising service, Paul encourages Australians to nominate those making a difference in their communities.

Paul explains, “recognising these individuals through honours and awards not only thanks them for their service but also helps preserve a culture of respect, encouragement, and community spirit for future generations.”

Through decades of dedication to surf lifesaving, sport and education, Paul has helped build stronger, safer and more connected communities — a contribution now recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia.