On 22 June, the Honorary French Consulate of Melbourne co-hosted with the Institute of Studies of French-Australian Relations the award ceremony honoring Ms Elaine Lewis. She became Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques.

Professor Colin Nettelbeck, President of ISFAR, spoke of her contribution to ISFAR, particularly as co-editor of the journal formerly called Exploration and presently known as French Australian Review.

The Honorary Consul General of France spoke about Ms Elaine Lewis’ long and diverse career before presenting her with the medal. Elaine was truly an ambassador for the French Australian cultural relations as she established an Australian library in Paris in 1996 where she organised events with over 70 writers’ from both countries.