TWO respected Upper Hunter community leaders have been recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours, with Murrurundi’s Ray Shoobert awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) and Largs identity Vicki Woods appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).
The honours recognise decades of dedication, volunteer service and leadership across the Upper Hunter and Hunter regions.
Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell congratulated both recipients in his “State Matters on 8 June”, describing their contributions as extraordinary examples of community service.
“This year’s King Birthday Honours have highlighted two wonderful contributions to the Upper Hunter Electorate which both span decades,” Mr Layzell wrote.
Mr Shoobert received an OAM for his longstanding commitment to the Murrurundi community.
A charter member of the Murrurundi Lions Club since 1962, he later became a Life Member and was also a foundation member of the Murrurundi Men’s Shed.
His dedication to local causes was recognised in 2013 when he was named Murrurundi and Upper Hunter Shire Citizen of the Year.
“Ray, a charter member of Murrurundi Lions Club since 1962, is now a Life Member of the club and was a foundation member of Murrurundi Men’s Shed,” Mr Layzell said.
Meanwhile, Vicki Woods has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the tourism and hospitality industry and to the wider community.
Best known for her success with Bushrangers Bar and Brasserie, Ms Woods earned six Excellence for Best Restaurant in a Pub Awards and built a reputation as one of the Hunter’s most respected hospitality operators.
“Vicki’s contribution to Largs is legendary,” Mr Layzell said.
Beyond hospitality, Ms Woods has served as a Maitland City Councillor, president of the Largs Public School Parents and Citizens Association, chair of the Largs-Bolwarra Recreation Board, and a member of the Lorn Park Oval Recreation Board.
The King’s Birthday Honours celebrate Australians whose commitment and service have made a lasting impact on their communities, with both recipients leaving an enduring legacy across the Upper Hunter region.
By Sis HIGGINS
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