Destination NSW Chairman Sally Loane has been appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List.

The recognition reflects Ms Loane’s decades of service across broadcasting, business, governance and philanthropy—fields in which she has led with purpose and broken new ground.

Announced by the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, the 2025 list recognised 830 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service.

The list includes people recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious, gallantry, distinguished and conspicuous honours.

The Governor-General said: “I am delighted to congratulate all those recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List.

“These honours recognise the selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care that flourish across our country.

“Every day, and all across the country, Australians are doing extraordinary things with passion, generosity, energy, and resolve. To all who are being recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List, I want to offer my congratulations and gratitude for all that you have given to Australia.”

Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper said: “This recognition reflects Sally’s decades of contribution across broadcasting, business, governance and philanthropy — areas where she has consistently led with purpose and broken new ground.

“Congratulations, Sally — and thank you for your leadership.”

Ms Loane said: “I am privileged to work with Destination NSW for the great benefit of NSW and our burgeoning visitor economy.”

Business Events Sydney CEO Lynn Lewis-Smith OAM was also recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours with a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to tourism in NSW.

Over more than two decades with BESydney —including 12 years as CEO—Ms Lewis-Smith has championed Sydney on the global stage, attracting world-leading events, forging international partnerships, and showcasing the value of business events as a driver of trade, talent and innovation.

Her work has delivered lasting outcomes for NSW’s economy, reputation and international engagement.

Ms Lewis-Smith said: “I’ve had the privilege, with the BESydney team, to work alongside the Destination NSW team and Board for many years. This recognition reflects our shared belief that what we do matters.”