The Annual Queen’s Birthday Honourees pose for a photo during a gala ceremony at Government House, Thursday, January 28. (BIS photo/Peter Ramsay)

Nassau, Bahamas -- The 60 Bahamians who received the Annual Queen’s Birthday Honours for the year 2009 were presented with certificates and badges of honour during a gala ceremony held at Government House, Thursday, January 28.

The honourees were recognized for their outstanding and dedicated service in a cross-section of areas; and Governor General His Excellency Arthur D Hanna also thanked them for their contributions to the country.

“Our respective communities throughout The Bahamas are richer because you live and labour here,” His Excellency said.

“You have served with excellence in so many sectors of our community: in health, education, religion, business, hospitality, politics, church, tourism, the performing arts, the public service and transportation, therefore, on behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you.”

Prime Minister the Rt Hon Hubert A Ingraham addresses the 60 honourees during a ceremony on the grounds of Government House, Thursday, January 28. (BIS photo/Peter Ramsay)

Prime Minister the Rt Hon Hubert A Ingraham explained that the honourees were chosen because they helped to build up a young nation.

“Some of you are no doubt surprised at having been singled out for an honour believing that you have simply done your job, honed a talent, answered a call to a vocation, run a small business or become involved in politics at the community level,“ Prime Minister Ingraham said.

“I want to say to you today, that there is nothing ordinary about doing a good job, giving excellent service and being dedicated to the improvement of our social and civic conditions.” 

The Prime Minister added that all the honourees deserved to be recognized at the national level for the services they have rendered.

A reception followed on the grounds of the upper gardens at the Government House.

Prime Minister the Rt Hon Hubert A Ingraham talks with Governor General His Excellency Arthur D Hanna during the Annual Queen’s Birthday Honours. (BIS photo/Peter Ramsay)