Barry Humphries awarded nation's highest honour weeks after death
The late Barry Humphries has been awarded Australia's highest honour in a King's birthday honours list featuring more women than men for the first time ever.
The recently departed entertainment icon is joined by acclaimed writer Tim Winton, comedian Judith Lucy and an array of scientists, doctors and politicians on the long list of awards.
Humphries, the legendary and much-loved comedian, actor and more who brought his most famous character Dame Edna to the world, was named a Companion of the Order of Australia on Sunday night, after he passed away in April.
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Humphries poses for pictures after he received his Most Excellent Order of the British Empire from Britain's Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in 2007. AP
He was recognised for "eminent service to the arts as a comedian, actor, author, satirist and entertainer, to the promotion of Australian culture, and as a patron of organisations", 15 year's after Queen Elizabeth II made him CBE for his services to that country.
The other five prominent Australians to be named as companions of the order were medical researchers Professor Caroline Bower, Professor Glenda Halliday and Professor David Hunter, former Western Australian premier Colin Barnett and former federal minister Jenny Macklin.
Best-selling Western Australian author Tim Winton was named an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to literature, conservation and environmental advocacy.
Others honoured in the arts included comedians Judith Lucy, Denise Scott and Ben Elton, who were all made members of the order.
Long-time Sydney Mayor Clover Moore; her Melbourne counterpart Sally-Ann Capp; Australian sports official and former Matildas vice-captain Moya Dodd; and investor, miner, philanthropist and former rugby administrator Robert Millner were also named officers of the order.
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Judith Lucy and Denise Scott were both recognised. Supplied: A Current Affair
Governor-General David Hurley said it was the first time there were more men than women among the 1191 Australians recognised, including gender parity or better in the three most prestigious categories.
"While we can take a moment to acknowledge the significance of achieving gender parity in our Honours, it should not be a cause to pause," he said.
"We reflect on our progress, and then recommit our efforts to ensure nominations reflect our diverse and strong community."
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