The event brought together recipients of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and Member of the Order of Australia (AM) as part of a bi-annual tradition. Author Roz Dreise was the guest speaker for the event.

Convener for the event Greg Hartig AM said the function recognised the achievements of all recipients. Mr Hartig himself was named an AM following his service to the military.

At 90 years of age, Allan (Toby) Wilson loves catching up with fellow members.

The Gloucester resident was awarded an OAM in 2012 for his service to Legacy, the Gloucester RSL Sub-branch and sports groups. 

He said his achievement came as a surprise.

“It was a complete shock to me,” Mr Wilson said.

Wendy Borchers AM was honoured on Australia Day in 2015 for her work as an archivist and researcher at the ABC.

She developed a project in the early 1990s in relation to Aboriginal culture and heritage, one of the first of its kind in Australia. 

Ms Borchers said content taken from her project is still broadcast on the ABC today. She was thankful to those who assisted in the project.

"It was for everybody that I worked with,” Ms Borchers said in relation to her award.

A follow up function is expected to be held in Taree before Christmas. The Manning Regional Group welcomes members from Bulahdelah to south of Kew.