Two Australian experts have been recognised with prestigious honours.

Robin Beaman, senior research fellow and ocean mapping scientist at James Cook University has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the King’s 2026 Honours List.

Beaman was awarded the AM for his service to ocean mapping, marine geology and geomorphology.

Reflecting on the honour in a post made to LinkedIn, Beaman said that “The Chair of the Council for the Order of Australia spoke of recipients going ‘above and beyond. In my case, perhaps it has been a matter of going ‘below’ and beyond — leading seafloor mapping expeditions to some of the remotest parts of Australia’s marine jurisdiction.”

“This recognition reflects the work of many outstanding people and organisations,” he added.

“My sincere thanks to the exceptional science teams I have had the privilege to work with over the years, including academic colleagues, CSIRO Marine National Facility, and Schmidt Ocean Institute.

“I am also deeply grateful to Geoscience Australia and the Australian Hydrographic Office for their support and collaboration.”

Award for service to the geospatial community

In an honour bestowed from the other side of the world, Denise McKenzie has received the 2026 Association for Geographic Information (AGI) Chairperson’s Award for Outstanding Service to the Geospatial Community.

McKenzie is a data ethics professional and digital governance specialist, and Managing Partner of the PLACE Trust.

Writing on LinkedIn, McKenzie said that she was feeling “both surprised and humbled” to receive the award.

“After nine years on the Association for Geographic Information (AGI) Council — including two as Chair — I stepped down in December, incredibly proud of how far the organisation has come,” she wrote.

“We reshaped operations, modernised the membership model, revitalised GeoCom, and delivered the outstanding Foresight Report.

“It’s been a privilege to be part of the journey, particularly working alongside such a committed and talented team.”