Mick Fanning is embracing the unknown after pressing pause on his remarkable surfing career.
The three-time world champion's status as a national hero has been formally recognised with his appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia.
He and former Formula One driver Mark Webber have both been appointed AO, in the 2017 Australia Day honours list annouced by the Governor General.
Fanning provided one of the feel-good stories of 2016 by winning the competition at South Africa's Jeffreys Bay, the scene of his shark attack the previous year.
But the 35-year-old was largely absent from the world tour, stepping back from the grind after a tumultuous 2015 capped by the sudden death of his older brother Peter.
Instead, Fanning travelled to Alaska with conservation group Wild Ark, surfed under the northern lights in Norway and devoted time to charities including the Starlight Foundation.
Fanning, who was honoured for his surfing accomplishments and charity work, is committed to participating in the first Australian leg of this year's tour but hasn't decided whether to make a full-time return.
For now, he's just relishing being able to sleep in when he wants to.
"I had so much fun last year ... I could easily keep going down that path," he told AAP.
"I'd love to keep doing the conservation work, it's something that really excites me. I don't think I'll be on tour for 10 years, that's for sure. There's more fun things to do out there."
Webber's recognition came for distinguished service to motorsport and his work with medical and youth support groups.
Cyclist Robbie McEwen, former Wallabies captain Phil Kearns and retired sprinter Melinda Gainsford-Taylor were all appointed Members of the Order of Australia on Thursday.
Legspinner Bob Holland, who made his Test debut at age 38 and is now 70, was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia.
