Dr. Craig Challen SC OAM of Western Australia and Dr. Richard Harris SC OAM of South Australia were awarded the joint “Australian of the Year” from their heroic, unwavering and selfless bravery role in the rescue mission of the 12 Thai youth soccer players and their coach at Tham Luang, Chiang Rai Province in June 2018.

          The Royal Thai Embassy and the Thai community in Australia, once again, expressed sincere thanks and deepest gratitude to Dr. Harris and Dr. Challen for their contributions and also congratulated them for being titled the Australian of the Year 2019.  They both are truly deserved the said honour.

           Our deep appreciation also goes to Mr. Danzal Baker, Young Australian of the Year, Dr. Suzanne Packer AM, Senior Australian of the Year and Mrs. Kate and Mr. Tick Everett, Australia’s Local Hero, for their dedications to make Australia a better place to live.