Group photo taken at Government House in Port Moresby when Robin was presented with the OBE in May 2003 (L-R) Joe Igo, Marshall Cooke (Robin’s brother), Kris Ninkama, who proposed Robin for the OBE, Robin, and Jacob Moreweya

Congratulations go to PNGAA Member, Professor Robert (Robin) Cooke AM, OAM, OBE, who was recognised in the Australia Day 2024 Honours List, by being made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).

Robin was awarded the AM for significant service to pathology, teaching medical students in both Australia and Papua New Guinea, and for publishing scientific articles in the Bulletin of the International Academy of Pathology (IAP), the largest organisation of pathologists in the world. He has been editor of newsletters for the Australasian Division of the IAP, and its international body for a record 23 years. The gold medals and certificates of appreciation Robin has received from several countries include the USA, Japan, France, and the Arab Division. He was the first and likely the last Australian to receive many of these awards.

Robin remains a current Adjunct Professor with the University of PNG, James Cook University, and the University of Queensland. He was an Anatomical Pathologist with Pathology Queensland (PQ) from 1968 after working in PNG and London. During his time in PQ, Robin received the title of Emeritus Director and life membership to several professional associations.

Robin wearing two medals (right)—the OAM from Australia (awarded in 2001) is on the left, and the OBE from Papua New Guinea is on the right

Having retired from clinical duties in 2009, Robin continues to teach, research, and publish educational material and electronic media, and running conferences both National and International (Australian College of Tropical Medicine: 2018).