The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List recognised 830 Australians for their outstanding work, dedication and commitment to serving their local community. Among the 114 Queenslanders on the list was a familiar face in the Bundaberg boating community — longtime marine rescue volunteer Bill Ker.
Presented the Medal of the Order of Australian (OAM) in the General Division, Mr William (Bill) Ker – For service to the community through emergency response organisations.
He first joined Volunteer Marine Rescue Bundaberg (now MRQ Bundaberg) in 1998 at the age of 60, and over the years has worn many hats — from Unit Training Coordinator and Maintenance Officer to Vice-President. In 2010, he was made a life member of the unit, and today he continues to serve as a Senior Coxswain.
This week, Bill joined other honours recipients at a special investiture ceremony at Government House, Brisbane, where he was presented with his OAM by Her Excellency, The Governor of Queensland. It was a proud moment for Bill, shared with his family and fellow recipients.
“I really didn’t expect this. I was blown away when I got the news,” he said.
For those who know him, the recognition comes as no surprise. Bill’s commitment to the unit’s direction and its day-to-day operations is second to none. His maritime expertise is highly respected by his marine rescue peers and by fellow first responders in Bundaberg.
Over his 27 years of service, Bill has answered the call on more than 512 activations and clocked up over 1,491 hours of sea time — with one in five of those hours spent on night operations.
Bill is also a Navy veteran and a passionate yachtie. Even after more than two decades of volunteering, he continues to embody the true spirit of service. That dedication runs in the family too — his wife, Mely, has also been a marine rescue volunteer for over 20 years.
His contributions extend beyond the water. In Bundaberg, Bill has been a strong supporter of the local community through his involvement with the PCYC and the Naval Association, further showing his commitment to service and community spirit.
Volunteers like Bill are living proof that one person can make a lasting difference in their community.
Bravo Zulu, Bill.