Honours for excellent educators and legendary leaders

Asset Publisher

29 January 2025

Reward and recognition

Three notable contributors to public education in WA were recognised on Australia Day, with prestigious national honours, for their remarkable service and dedication to the public sector.

Congratulations to: 

  • Dr Karen Read AM 
  • Brooke Wardana OAM 
  • John Marrapodi PSM 

Brooke Wardana, Dr Karen Read and John Marrapodi were recognised during the Australia Day honours.

Dr Karen Read AM 

Sevenoaks Senior College principal Dr Karen Read has been appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant contributions to both cricket and secondary education. Her dual commitment to fostering excellence in sport and education is inspirational. 

Dr Read was recognised for her outstanding leadership and her passion to make a difference in young people’s lives. She believes all young people can succeed given the right environment and support.

Dr Read has made significant contributions to secondary education for more than 30 years. She has been a principal at five secondary schools as well as a director and a principal consultant at the Department of Education. Dr Read also has a Doctor of Education, focusing on senior school reform. The University of WA recognised her thesis in 2013 by presenting her with the Fogarty Award for Education Excellence.   

The Member of the Order of Australia (AM), is for service in a particular locality or field of activity or to a particular group.

Brooke Wardana OAM 

Nollamara Primary School teacher Brooke Wardana was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her exceptional services to Early Childhood Education.  

Brooke’s work has profoundly shaped the lives of Australian children. Her leadership and professional learning initiatives with organisations such as Fogarty Foundation EDvance, the Kimberley Schools Project, and Catalyst have inspired thousands of educators nationwide to embrace evidence-based practices and transform literacy outcomes for students. She has  also worked at Dianella Heights Primary School, Brabham Primary School and Balga Primary School. 

The Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) is awarded for service worthy of particular recognition. 

John Marrapodi PSM 

John has been honoured with a Meritorious Award for his exemplary work as the Manager of Emergency and Security Management in our Infrastructure Operations team.  

His tireless efforts in enhancing the safety of our schools, staff, and students across Western Australia have set the benchmark for emergency preparedness and security within the Department.  

From managing natural disasters to addressing security threats, John’s expertise ensures our schools are safer places to learn and thrive. 

The Public Service Medal (PSM), for public service employees, including those of the Australian Government and state, territory and local governments, is awarded to those who have given outstanding public service.