Congratulations to our AusHertiage Director and Federation University’s Professor Keir Reeves on being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours for services to regional higher education.

Keir has dedicated his career to exploring the role of history, heritage and place in shaping regional communities, while championing access to higher education for students from diverse backgrounds.

Over the past decade, his work across Ballarat, Creswick, Daylesford, Clunes and beyond has strengthened connections between universities, communities and industry, creating meaningful outcomes for regional Victoria.

Keir’s recognition reflects not only his outstanding contributions to research and community engagement, but also the impact of regional higher education in creating opportunities for communities to thrive.

Further details can be found here.