Eight Canberrans added to ACT Honour Walk
Eight Canberrans have had their names added to the ACT Honour Walk, including three former chief ministers.
Those recognised included former chief ministers Gary Humphries, Kate Carnell and Jon Stanhope, as well as advocate for the homeless Liz Dawson and basketball star Lauren Jackson.
Current Chief Minister Katy Gallagher said each of the recipients were people who had worked hard for the city of Canberra and deserved recognition.
"I think it's really important as part of us maturing as a city, that we start to honour those that have helped create the city," she said.
"It's something that will last forever, so year by year as more people contribute and take part in the social fabric of Canberra, they too can be recognised."
Other recipients included businessman and author Peter Dawson and Capital Football chief executive Heather Reid.
Surveyor Charles Robert Scrivener, without whom Canberra would not exist as it does today, was also recognised.
"In 1908 Charles Scrivener was chosen to determine the best city site and water catchment territory for the new capital," Ms Gallagher said.
"He was appointed the first director of Commonwealth lands and surveys in 1910 and worked closely with the Griffins in Canberra's design."
'I'm not sure I'm quite finished yet'
Mr Humphries, who was a member of the ACT Legislative Assembly from 1989 to 2001 and Liberal chief minister from 2000 to 2001, before claiming a seat in the federal Senate, said the honour walk charted the history of the Canberra and it was a great honour to be included.
"I feel privileged, I also feel a little bit old," Mr Humphries said.
"I think this is the sort of thing you get when you're close to retirement or when you're finished.
"I'm not sure I'm quite finished yet, but I'm certainly very happy to be honoured in this way."
Mr Stanhope, who was Labor chief minister from 2001 to 2011, said he too felt privileged to have served the people of Canberra.
"I'm proud of Canberra, I'm proud of my effort in trying to enhance the place, but I do feel embarrassed I think in this sterling company," he said.
The new additions to the Honour Walk joined the likes of Walter and Marion Griffin, Ngunnawal elder Agnes Shea and squash champion Heather McKay.
There are more than 50 individuals and organisations now listed on the walk, which is found on Ainslie Avenue in Canberra's centre.
