Both Jill Taylor from Mallabula and Wendy Stein from Taylors Beach were among the 138 females recognised in today's Australia Day Honours List's general division.

Ms Taylor was nominated for her service to wildlife conservation, in particular koalas, while Ms Stein was recognised for her service internationally through the Rotary service club organisation.

When the Examiner asked Jill Taylor about her award the humbled woman said "why me?"

Instead of taking recognition she commended those who had helped her through the years including veterinarian Rod Starr.

"Suddenly because I look after these amazing creatures I'm recognised... they are the wonderful ones," she said.

"Why me? there are so many worth while people out there."

Ms Taylor's nomination also touched on the fact that not only was she involved in the Hunter Koala Preservation Society for more than 20 years, she was also the secretary for the Tilligerry Preservation Society for nine years, a Lifeline counsellor for 10 years and a volunteer for Meals on Wheels for five years.

Wendy Stein has dedicated her life to humanitarian aid and considers herself an "ordinary Australian."

The Taylors Beach resident has been a member of Salamander Rotary club and its international service director since 2005.

In that time Ms Stein has gone on countless international aid missions to Cambodia, Bangladesh and the Philippines.

But the country she holds close to her generous heart is Papua New Guinea.

Ms Stein said she flies to Papua New Guinea at least five times a year to work on three aid projects she currently oversees which help to improve education, reduce the mortality rate of children and ensure access to medical treatment.

But the OAM recipient was quick to acknowledge those who supported her work.

"I am only an ordinary proud Australian, who is surrounded by a group of like minded family and friends, who embrace humanity," she said.

"Together we do extraordinary things for the people of our nearest neighbour - Papua New Guinea."

Ms Stein flies out on Saturday to continue her work in Papua New Guinea.