Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency, The Honourable Margaret Beazley presented Mrs Maxwell with the prestigious medal and thanked her for the time and assistance she has given to the Finley community over so many years.
She then went on to explain that many communities, small and large, would not operate without the input from volunteers.
Mrs Maxwell was notified in September last year that she would be receiving the award, but was advised that the news had to be kept confidential until it was announced on Australia Day this year.
“I feel very humbled and privileged to receive this honour and have done so on behalf of all the other wonderful volunteers in Finley,” Mrs Maxwell said.
“There are others more deserving than me.”
Accompanied by her daughter Jennifer McNamara and nephew Wayne Donaldson, Mrs Maxwell was initially reluctant to attend the presentation because of her age, but after some convincing by her daughter she was very pleased to have made the trip.
Mrs Maxwell was especially pleased with the treatment her and her daughter received, travelling by train first class from Albury and being accompanied by railway staff on the red carpet through to the official party.
Mrs Maxwell said the ceremony was faultless, with very impressive views across the harbour and a wonderful afternoon on the lawns of Government House to finish it all off.
Mrs Maxwell thanked her family and many friends who have expressed congratulations and best wishes on receiving the award. As well as her daughter and nephew who chauffeured her to the venue and was delighted to be a witness to the occasion.
