World leader in Deep Brain Stimulation neurologist Professor Peter Silburn has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2013 Australia Day Honours.

Professor Silburn, Lead Clinician for the Asia-Pacific Centre for Neuromodulation (a joint initiative between The University of Queensland and St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital) was honoured for his ‘significant service to medicine as a neurologist, particularly in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.’

Professor Silburn said he was greatly touched to receive the Member of the Order of Australia and appreciated the recognition he has received for “really just doing the work”.

“The real reward is in helping other people, rather than it being a personal thing for me, and I pay special tribute to my patients and their families for placing their trust in me,” Professor Silburn said.

“The award also reflects the contribution of the many talented people I work with, but most especially, the support, love and encouragement from my family,” he said.

Professor Silburn’s Deep Brain Stimulation work is changing the lives of patients with a wide range of diseases and conditions, including Parkinson’s disease and dystonia, for whom standard medical therapies are no longer effective.

Faculty of Health Sciences Executive Dean Nicholas Fisk said, “Professor Peter Silburn really deserves this for his extraordinary talent and drive – he combines innovative technology and research with clinical practice to develop novel treatments, not just for Parkinson’s but for younger patients with a range of debilitating movement disorders.”

St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital General Manager Dr Ian England also congratulated Professor Silburn on the award.

“Peter’s pioneering work in Deep Brain Stimulation at St Andrew’s is making an extraordinary difference in the lives of many patients with a range of debilitating neurological conditions,” Dr England said.

“We at St Andrew’s Hospital are delighted that his dedication, passion and care have been acknowledged with a Member of the Order of Australia,” he said.