Virginia Rainger has been a part of Inverell's Red Cross since 2008, a vital piece both in front of and behind the scenes of the many fundraising responsibilities.
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As merchandiser, she reckons she's helped raised over 10 grand for the Inverell branch over the course of her tenure.
Responsible for ordering stock to sell, as well as manning the stalls - both weekly and monthly during pre-COVID times - and organising raffles and the like, Ms Rainger still said "why me" when her dedication was applauded on Monday.
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"It's very nice," she laughed.
"They said they are lucky to have me - well I am lucky to have them!"
Inverell's Red Cross president Cheryl Strahley said Ms Rainger was always prepared to give the time and effort required.
"Nothing is ever a bother for her," she explained.
"Plus, she is just a lovely person."
Ms Rainger proved she wasn't just good at giving orders either - "it's my way of the highway" - but had a keen imagination when it came to adapting to COVID-19.
Last year she helped propagate and sell lavender and hydrangea plants, as well as home made bikkies and baked goods.
She also dealt with the same plights many others experienced during the pandemic's online shopping surge, but said it was about adapting and overcoming expectations.
"Being a merchandiser can be quite challenging, especially when you order something and it's not what you wanted, or it doesn't come when you want," she laughed.
"But its rewarding - you really get to know people in the community.
"I have one lady who hates the word 'merry' in anything to do with Christmas, so I'll make sure to go through all the cards we have to find one without the 'merry'," she laughed.
She initially joined the Red Cross after the previous merchandiser and friend - now 103 - called it a day.
Stepping up to the role, she said she'd learned to be more confident over the years, and gained trust in herself.
Ms Rainger has also found she can't stand people saying their bored.
"I could really use some young people to help bake and propagate," she noted.
"But they have to be able to do it my way," because after over a decade, she knows that she knows best now.
She said her certificate of appreciation will hang proudly on her wall, next to her four others.
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