Dr Mike Freelander says Macarthur is fortunate to have residents who go above and beyond in their service to our area – everyday Australians who provide their time and energy to improving the lives of others and often go without any formal recognition.
The federal member for Macarthur since 2016, Dr Freelander said he was pleased to see Heather Rouen of Bradbury acknowledged in the 2025 King’s Birthday honours list, receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
“Heather Rouen is a remarkable woman, and her selfless service has helped improve outcomes for thousands of residents over her many years of service,’’ Dr Freelander said.
“Whether it’s coaching diving teams, teaching in local high schools, serving as the Fisher’s Ghost Mascot or carrying the Olympic Torch ahead of the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Mrs Rouen has always put our community first,’’ he said.
“As such, I can think of no one better than Heather Rouen to receive a Medal of the Order of Australia.
“On behalf of a grateful Macarthur community, I thank Heather Rouen for her invaluable service to our region.”
Dr Freelander visited Mrs Rouen at home to congratulate her on behalf of a grateful community.
During the visit, Mrs Rouen and her husband, Terry Rouen, spoke about her many roles over the years.
These included her involvement with the Sydney South West School Sports Association, which she has been a member of since 1981 and has been involved in their swimming and water polo activities, as well as being a diving and swimming coach for local representatives.
Between 1979-2024 Mrs Rouen taught at various high schools in South West Sydney, including Elderslie High School.
Mrs Rouen also served as the Fisher’s Ghost mascot for Campbelltown Council between 1999 to 2014 during the Fisher’s Ghost Festival and ahead of the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Mrs Rouen carried the Olympic Torch through Campbelltown.
Dr Freelander said was proud to present Mrs Rouen with a certificate of appreciation and a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the Macarthur community.
