One of the doyens of Queensland racing, Alan Thomas, has been recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia.
As part of the annual Queen’s birthday honours list, the iconic Queensland race caller, who spent close to half a century behind the microphone, was awarded an OAM for his service to horse racing.
During an incredible broadcasting career, which commenced on the Gold Coast in 1971, Thomas would call 22 Magic Millions, 34 Stradbroke Handicaps and countless other feature races that made him synonymous in the Sunshine State.
Racing Queensland CEO Brendan Parnell was among the well wishes following today’s announcement.
“Alan Thomas is one of the nation’s great broadcasters and is truly deserving of his OAM,” Mr Parnell said.
“Over five decades, he set an incredible standard behind the microphone, and was equally adept whether he was calling a maiden, a Stradbroke Handicap or a State of Origin decider.
“When people think of Queensland racing, they often think of AT and he is an incredible ambassador for our industry.”
Having retired in 2015, Thomas can still be seen on Queensland racetracks including the Winter Carnival.
Talking to News Corp, Thomas was understandably proud of his accomplishments.
“The honour is a representation of what the Thomas family has been for a long time,” he said.
“My mother and father taught me to have values and work hard and be thoughtful of your fellow man.
“I've mentored and spent time with young callers to make them as good as they can be.
“I have always given my time to the industry.”
Racing Queensland congratulates AT on his Medal of the Order of Australia.
Image sourced from Sky Racing.