AUNTY Helen Bnads has been named in 2026 Australia Day Honours List.
Bnads is the cultural lead at Peninsula Health. She first joined the healthcare organisation in 2013, and was appointed to her current role in 2019.
In addition to her work with Peninsula Health, Bnads has spent two decades as a nurse, and has also served as a Koorie Court Elder at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court, and a board member at Willum Warrain Gathering Place. She also helped establish the Interfaith Centre Melbourne.
Bnads was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia. She said she felt “absolutely humbled” to receive an OAM.
“When I first got the call, I thought it was a scam. But since then I am feeling reflective, going back into my personal and professional life and feeling appreciative of all the people who’ve helped me along the way,” she said. “That’s what’s keeping me going, making a difference. Through all the chances I’ve had, it’s the need to always give back, and thankfully being able to do that.
“I love having a role where I am not stuck in my office, I’m out in the community and in the gathering places. I’m out of my country and it’s this community who have supported me and acknowledged my work.”
Aunty Helen Bnads was born in Brisbane, and has lived in Kulin nation for 55 years.
First published in the Frankston Times – 27 January 2026