Three long-time contributors to Australia’s scientific and logistical endeavours in Antarctica have been awarded the prestigious Australian Antarctic Medal in recognition of their service to the Australian Antarctic Program.

The three medal recipients were announced by the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, on a special Honours List for Midwinter’s Day.

The Australian Antarctic Medal, previously called the Antarctic Medal, is awarded for outstanding service in scientific research or exploration in connection with an Australian Antarctic expedition, or for support of such work.

The 2026 recipients of the Antarctic Medal are:

A metal medal showing Australia and Antarctica, on a white and blue ribbon, on a royal blue background
The Antarctic Medal.

Shaun Gillies

Mr Shaun Gillies has delivered a sustained and highly influential contribution to the Australian Antarctic Program through long‑term service across multiple Antarctic and sub‑Antarctic deployments. Working in a range of technical and leadership roles, Mr Gillies has played a key role in maintaining safe and reliable station operations in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Through this service, Mr Gillies has strengthened station capability and helped shape resilient, cohesive station communities. His leadership and commitment to others have had a lasting impact on both the effectiveness of station operations and the experience of those working in Antarctica.

A selfie of a man with ice in his beard and a scenic mountainous backdrop behind.
Shaun Gillies at Mawson. Photo: Shaun Gillies

Jennifer McGhee

Ms Jennifer McGhee has made an outstanding contribution to the Australian Antarctic Program through sustained service across multiple Antarctic and Head Office roles. Her work has focused on supporting people, building connections and strengthening the experience of those working in Antarctic environments.

Through this approach, Ms McGhee has played a key role in fostering safe, inclusive and supportive station communities. Her contribution to culture and wellbeing has delivered lasting benefits to the people and teams who live and work in Antarctica.

A woman in an orange high vis vest standing on a ship's deck with a helicopter behind.
Jenn McGhee on Nuyina's helideck during a resupply of Macquarie Island. Photo: Pete Harmsen

Dr Clive McMahon

Dr Clive McMahon has made an outstanding contribution to Antarctic and Southern Ocean science through internationally recognised leadership in marine mammal telemetry and ocean observation. His work has driven the development of innovative methods for collecting environmental data in remote and extreme Antarctic environments.

These advances have significantly strengthened Australia’s Antarctic science capability and contributed to global understanding of ocean and climate systems. His work supports international research collaboration and enhances Australia’s influence in Antarctic science

A man crouched next to an elephant seal. The seal has a satellite tracker glued to the top of its head.
Dr McMahon measuring an elephant seal's tail fin. Photo: David Barringhaus

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