Local resident awarded OAM for heritage and conservation work

Congratulations to Pearl Beach resident Peter Romey OAM, who has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of his outstanding service to heritage conservation and the environment.

A resident of Pearl Beach for the past 10 years and current Secretary of the Pearl Beach Environment Group, Peter has devoted much of his professional life to protecting and preserving some of Australia's most significant heritage places.

Reflecting on the honour, Peter said the award came as a surprise.

"It is particularly gratifying to be recognised for doing something that you feel passionate about, something that is much more than just a job," he said.

Throughout a distinguished career, Peter has played a leading role in heritage conservation across Australia and internationally. His work has included helping introduce some of Sydney's first heritage protection legislation, conserving the internationally significant Port Arthur Historic Site, and providing advice on World Heritage sites through UNESCO and the International Council on Monuments and Sites.

Peter has also generously shared his expertise through lectures, workshops and advisory roles across the Asia-Pacific region.

In recent years, he has become a passionate advocate for protecting the unique environment and character of Pearl Beach and the wider Central Coast.

Peter was quick to acknowledge the many colleagues and mentors who have influenced his career, saying he hopes his work has encouraged others to recognise, value and care for important heritage places.

The Pearl Beach community congratulates Peter on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his ongoing contribution to preserving the places and environments that make our communities so special.