Governor-General recognises financial supporters ahead of Australian performers and artists.

In stark contrast to the 2014 Australia Day Honours, which saw actors Geoffrey Rush and Jacki Weaver, composer Brenton Broadstock and conductor Patrick Thomas commended for their contributions to the arts, yesterdays Australia Day honours saw the Abbott government and Sir Peter Cosgrove favouring the financial contributions of private individuals rather than the creative work of Australian artists.

Receiving the highest honour, the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), was Marcus Besen of Victoria, a long-standing member of the National Council of Australian Opera and a Trustee of the Australian National Gallery, who has been a benefactor of these and other Australian Arts institutes over many years.

Husband and wife philanthropists Peter and Joan Clemenger were also recognized as supporters of Orchestra Victoria, the Australian Ballet, Melbourne Theatre Company and the National Gallery of Victoria to name a few. Each was made an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AO) for their continued support and interest in Victorian arts.
Topping the smattering of musicians and performing artists on the list was New York-based composer and conductor Sean O’Boyle, whose well-known concerto for didgeridoo and orchestra...