Our city, which is becoming more cosmopolitan and self-aware by the day, has long been known for its shared values, sense of purpose and a spirit of neighbourhood that extends to a widespread veto on front fences.

Its compassion for those seeking refuge from conflicts abroad, for the homeless, for the victims of bushfires and domestic violence and for mistreated animals has been well documented by this newspaper for many decades.

Equally well known are commendable commitments to democracy, the causes of justice and fair play and science and the arts that have been pursued, and driven, by some of the most accomplished Australians of the post-Federation era.

All of this, and more, was recognised in the Queens Birthday Honours list released on the weekend with dozens of Canberrans celebrated for going above and beyond in their desire to help others, to be the best they could be and to keep the vision of a better world alive.

While some, such as Professor Kenneth Freeman and Professor Noel Pettit, are distinguished academics and world leaders in their respective fields of astronomy and philosophy, others were recognised for sterling efforts in their own backyards.

These included people such as Gundaroo's Donna Stepan for her work with animal welfare, Darryl Rice of Duffy as a community volunteer, William Handke for his work in conservation, Graeme Barrow for his commitment to bushwalking and promoting local history, Richard and Deborah Rolfe for their charitable endeavours and Marilyn Carey of Mawson for her work with the Baptist Church and her local community.

All of these people are part of the fabric of Canberra and each, in their own way, has helped bind the threads of our community closer together.

They, like Chapman's Glenn Keys, believe they have a responsibility that extends beyond living just for themselves and their near and dear.

While Mr Keys is best known for his business activities with Aspen Medical, which is now providing vital services around the world, he and his wife, Amelda, have been tireless advocates for the rights of the disabled for many years.

They have spearheaded a well-thought out program that has made it possible for Canberrans with disabilities to have the security of homes that are genuinely their own.

Those who have recently suggested the push to decentralise some government departments from Canberra should be welcomed on the basis people would be moved to communities where "the neighbours would bring the dog back if it got out" should study our honours list entries closely.

This has long been such a community. Canberrans have always been good neighbours.