In 2026, Australia and Japan celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation (Friendship and Cooperation Treaty).
In commemoration of this anniversary, the Japanese Foreign Minister awarded Commendations to twelve individuals and organisations throughout Australia in recognition of their contribution to Japan-Australia relations.
The Australia Japan Society of Queensland congratulates Margaret Rackemann, Former President of AJS-QLD, upon her receipt of the award. It recognises her more than 40 years of involvement with Japan and continuous promotion of the Australia Japan relationship.
AJS-QLD also congratulates Naomichi Hirano OAM, President of the Japan Community of Queensland Inc. and Christopher Whitecross, Former President of the Queensland Japan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (QJCCI) upon their receipt of this award.