08/06/2026
Congratulations to our CEO, Deb Portughes, on being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of her outstanding service to the community.
As WIRF celebrates its 50th anniversary year, we are incredibly proud to see Deb's decades of dedication recognised through one of Australia's highest honours.
For more than 24 years, Deb has worked across the not-for-profit sector, helping organisations create meaningful change and lasting impact. Over the past decade, she has led WIRF's mission to improve the health and wellbeing of women, babies, and families through research, education, and advocacy.
Under her leadership, WIRF has grown its impact nationally and internationally, supporting research that has improved health outcomes, reduced preterm birth, and demonstrated the power of research to change lives.
Deb's passion for bringing people together around a common purpose, creating opportunities for others, and strengthening communities has inspired so many people along the way.
Please join us in congratulating Deb on this well-deserved recognition. We thank her for her leadership, vision, and commitment to improving the futures of women, babies, and families.
Learn more about Deb’s contributions to our community, including her efforts to protect Australia's unique wildlife, here👉http://wirf.com.au/.../news/national-honour-for-wirf-ceo/
Congratulations Deb!
Australian Wildlife Conservancy Australian Honours and Awards Governor-General of Australia Australian Government