More than 80 doctors from specialties ranging from anaesthesiology to vascular surgery have been named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. Among them are 11 GPs, covered in detail by our sister publication Australian Doctor.

The highest decoration was given to one of the nation’s most eminent neurologists, in recognition of more than five decades as a clinician and academic.

Professor David Burke was appointed Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for “eminent service to neurophysiology, to innovative treatments for spinal cord and brain trauma injuries and to professional medical organisations”.

The Sydney neurologist is best known for his substantial research on spinal cord circuitry, co-authoring a book in 2005 that has become a bible on the subject for neurophysiologists, neurologists and rehabilitation specialists.