Sailing stars honoured

As a competitor, Davidson was also a National Champion in the Finn Class and was selected as a member of the Australian Olympic Yachting Team for the Moscow 1980 Olympics but was unable to compete due to the Olympic boycott. He was selected as a Reserve for the 1984 and 1988 Olympic Games but never got the opportunity to compete.

Additionally, as a long-time member of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, Davidson served as a National Coach from 1985-96 and spent seven years as a Board Member of Yachting NSW including two years as Vice President and one year as President.

Commenting after the announcement, Davidson said: “I am deeply honoured by the Award, and I am happy to accept it on behalf of all volunteers who put back into the sport, who take responsibility for the sport and keep pushing it forward.

“I also couldn’t have achieved what I did without the support of my wife who was keeping the home fires burning while I was at what seemed to be never-ending meetings. I have very much enjoyed seeing the advancement of sailing, especially at the Olympic level.”

Jenkinson OAM was also honoured in the 2026 list – receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to sailing, alongside his contribution to junior rugby league.

In a statement, Australian Sailing noted that Jenkinson has been the lifeblood of Yarra Bay 16ft Skiff Sailing Club for over 35 years, having served as Vice-Commodore from 1990-2000 and Commodore since 2000.

Jenkinson has also been a passionate advocate for community sport, with his work in sailing helping to foster participation, encourage young people and support grassroots development. His recognition reflects the vital role volunteers and community leaders play in ensuring sailing remains accessible and inclusive.

Australian Sailing Chief Executive Officer, Malcolm Page OAM, added that the honours highlight the depth of contribution made by individuals connected to the sport and community life across the country.

“We are proud to see members of the sailing community recognised on Australia Day,” he said. “These honours acknowledge not only personal achievement, but also the many years of dedication, leadership and service that help our sport and our communities thrive. We congratulate all recipients and thank them for the lasting impact they have made.”

Other members of the sailing community who were recognised include:

• The Honourable Ian Gordon Campbell AM (Significant service to the people and Parliament of Australia) – 2011 ISAF Sailing World Sailing Championships Chairman, Etchells Class National Champion, Second Place at 1982 Soling World Championships
• Mr Norman John Fry OAM (For service to veterans, and to the community) – Executive Director, Yachting Queensland, 2007-2009
• The late Mr William John Quinlan-Watson OAM (For service to the community of Robe) – Treasurer of Robe Yacht Club, 1990-2021
• Mr Barry William Sammels OAM (For service to the community of Rockingham, and to local government) – Patron of Safety Bay Yacht Club and Vice Patron Rockingham Cruising Yacht Club

Australian Sailing extends its congratulations to all Australians recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List.

Visit the Governor-General’s website to view the full list of recipients.

sailing.org.au