Commander Stephen Burk of Tasmania Police has been awarded the prestigious Australian Police Medal (APM) in the King’s Birthday Honours today, recognising his nearly four decades of distinguished service to law enforcement and the Tasmanian community.

Commissioner Donna Adams extended her heartfelt congratulations to Commander Burk, stating, “the Australian Police Medal gives special recognition to members of Australian police forces for commendable service, and Commander Stephen Burk is a very worthy recipient of this recognition today.”

Commander Burk joined Tasmania Police in 1986 and has since built a career spanning almost 40 years, marked by “exceptional professionalism and unwavering commitment to public safety and effective law enforcement,” Commissioner Adams noted.

“Throughout his extensive career, Commander Burk has been lauded for embodying the highest ethical standards and demonstrating a remarkable ability to inspire and lead his teams, particularly during challenging periods.

“His dedication has not gone unnoticed, with Commander Burk receiving several commendations for his skill and leadership across a diverse range of policing matters. His career stands as a testament to his steadfast commitment to both Tasmania Police and the wider community.

“The Australian Police Medal is a testament to Commander Burk’s profound impact on policing in Tasmania and his unwavering dedication to upholding the law and serving the public.”

Other Awards

Humanitarians, educators and wildlife carers are among the 18 Tasmanians recognised in the June 2025 Honours List.

Four Tasmanians have been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of their distinguished achievements, including

  • Roslyn Cornish, for her significant service to early childhood education administration;
  • Adrian Kelly, for his significant service to the real estate sector in leadership and board roles;
  • David Law, for his significant service to public health as a practitioner and in leadership roles; and
  • Albert van Zetten, for his significant service to local government and to the community.

The following 13 Tasmanians have been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in appreciation of their contributions to their local communities:

  • The late Robert Allen, for his service to the international community through humanitarian roles;
  • Michael Barrenger, for his service to the community of George Town;
  • Dr Tonia Cochran, for her service to conservation and the environment;
  • Joseph Cook, for his service to community music;
  • The late Peter Cox, for his service to the community of George Town;
  • Mary Koolhof, for her service to education;
  • Anthony Kube, for his service to rugby union;
  • Lesley Kurek, for her service to conservation and the environment;
  • Steven Martin, for his service to the community of northern Tasmania;
  • John (Leigh) McAdam, for his service to lawn bowls;
  • The late Reginald Watson, for his service to history;
  • Craig Webb, for his service to wildlife conservation; and
  • Donald Wells, for his service to the aviation industry in Tasmania.

Tasmanian Times (TT) is a community-based news and current affairs service covering the island state of Tasmania. It exists to provide a diverse view of Tasmanian issues. TT creates and supports independent media content utilising the best of modern technologies and tried-and-true practices of public-interest journalism.

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