Alverna "Dusty" Walkom has been honoured with an OAM for using all of these characteristics to contribute to her community.

After moving to the area Dusty was invited to attend a committee meeting of the Manning Entertainment Centre.

She soon joined, and took a major role in a successful fundraiser.

"We had a big fundraiser at the PCYC. I think our mission was to raise $4000 and we ended up raising $40,000. We had a big auction dinner, and of course I had the honour of providing supper to 750 people on a budget on $5 a head," Dusty recalled.

"I think that was the beginning of it all and it was fabulous. It was a huge thing for me, because I got to know the community really quickly and got involved really quickly, that was a highlight for me."

This was the beginning of a long and prosperous relationship with Taree's arts community.

As vice president of the Friends of the Manning Regional Art Gallery, Dusty is no stranger to educating the community about the value of art.

"I think in order for a community to have some essence and vibrance to attract people, we have to give them something other than sports, bridges and roads.

"If you want to attract people to come to a valley and to educate your children, I think you need to hold the arts forever important."

Art is a passion shared between Dusty and husband, Dr Phillip Walkom.

Together they instigated the Walkom Manning Art Prize in 1990, which continues today as the Manning Art Prize.

The couple took part in various other philanthropic endeavours including a trip abroad where they were based as a doctor and nurse in New Guinea.

"To work as a voluntary nurse out there was very fulfilling," Dusty said.

Dusty's international work continued with her role with the Rotary Club of Taree on Manning, where she has held a range of executive roles since 2004.

"The wonderful thing about Rotary is you feel included.

"Rotary is your extended family. I think the work they do in the community is amazing, and I love the fact that I can be involved internationally."

Dusty is originally from England, where she left school at the age of 15 to care for her nine siblings.

Today, she is highly proud of a family of her own.

"I'm incredibly proud of my family, Phillip's unconditional support and the children have been what's allowed me to go on this journey of giving to others,"

Dusty is equally inspired by her "friends".

"You can't achieve what you achieve without the other people that surround you and inspire you to do what you do within the community.

"Within the gallery, Sue Mitchell, Mary Hunter and Maeve Richardson all inspired me. They've all been great role models for me, and they set a high benchmark.

"I find it fantastic that women can support other women, and hopefully one day you'll be interviewing someone who's been influenced by me and the community to do good things and get recognised for it."