Limelight congratulates this year’s artistic luminaries recognised for services to the arts.

Australian opera stars Cheryl Barker and Peter Coleman-Wright were among four artistic luminaries recognised in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honours list, announced yesterday. Both singers received AOs, the second highest laurel bestowed in the annual honours. Barker was praised for her work as a mentor and role model, for her charitable and fundraising efforts, and for being a torch barer for equal opportunities for the future generations of women in opera. Coleman-Wright was also honoured for his fundraising, and for his work as a mentor and role model.

Also awarded AOs were Australia Council Chair Rupert Myer, for distinguished service to the visual and performing arts, as a cultural leader, a supporter and benefactor, and as a champion of the sector and a promoter of philanthropy. One of Australia’s most cherished actors and musical theatre stars Simon Burke was also honoured with an AO, both for his achievements as a performer and for senior advocacy roles for performance rights.

The wife of one of Australia’s richest men, Paula Fox, was also recognised with an AO for her significant philanthropic work. Married to Lindsay Fox, founder and chairman of...