OzGrav is delighted to congratulate Professor David Blair, one of Australia’s pioneering gravitational-wave physicists, on being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours.

Professor Blair was recognised for his distinguished service to physics, precision measurement science, gravitational-wave research and scientific education.

A founding figure in Australian gravitational-wave science, Professor Blair has spent decades advancing the technologies and scientific capabilities that helped position Australia as a global contributor to gravitational-wave astronomy. His work has inspired generations of researchers and played a significant role in shaping the field that ultimately led to the first direct detection of gravitational waves in 2015.

Throughout his career, Professor Blair has been a passionate advocate for science education and public engagement, helping to foster a deeper understanding of physics and astronomy among students, researchers and the broader community.

The recognition is a fitting tribute to a remarkable career dedicated to expanding humanity’s understanding of the Universe and advancing Australian scientific excellence.

Congratulations, David, on this well-deserved honour.

Check out the announcement here: https://govhouse.wa.gov.au/2026/06/the-2026-kings-birthday-honours-list/
Local news: https://www.uwa.edu.au/news/article/2026/june/outstanding-western-australians-honoured-in-kings-birthday-list
Australian Academy of Science announcement: https://science.org.au/news-events/news-views/fellows-celebrated-kings-birthday-honours-1