Mr Thompson will today receive an Order of Australian Medal (OAM) for his work with the Rural Issues Committee for the past 15 years and as a solicitor with Commins Hendriks Solicitors since 1985. 

Mr Thompson said his work was largely about saving the family farm, being an “information office” to the people of all creeds that walked through the office’s doors. 

“We’ve largely focused on family arrangement,” Mr Thompson said. 

“We offer farming families options when corporations are talking to buy them out, or when the family doesn’t have a strong succession plan.”

Mr Thompson said his work ensured small farming communities were protected for future generations. 

“When people don’t know all the available options to them, then they start making decisions that aren’t necessarily in their best interest, which also tend not to be in the best interests of the community.

“And our vision is for a strong community with empowered people.”

Born in Junee, Mr Thompson studied Arts/Law in Canberra before getting a job with the Aboriginal Legal Service. 

He has been a member of Regional Development Australia since its inception in 2009, acted on the advisory board of Wagga Base Hospital between 1987 and 1996 and has acted as the chairman of the Coolamon on Display Day Committee. 

Mr Thompson said invaluable contributions were made by his family and colleagues. 

“My wife Gabrielle and our family have all contributed,” he said.