Yvonne Repin is being awarded an OAM for service to music.
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Ms Repin has been secretary and orchestra manager of New Steel City Strings Inc since 2015. She was founder and manager of what was formerly known as Steel City Strings from 2000 to 2004 and is a former orchestra manager.
She has been a member of the Amateur Chamber Music Society, a member of the society's management committee and coordinator of the Wollongong Music Camp. She was a board member of the Wollongong Conservatorium from 1992 to 94, chair of the Adelaide Festival Fringe in the late 1980's, board member of the South Australian Youth Arts in the late 1980's and a member of the Australian Youth Orchestra in 1957.
"It is a huge honour to be recognised in this way," she said.
Ms Repin, 79, said while she was in Steel City Strings when it first started she only played in the first couple of concerts.
"I have been managing it since then. So it is great to be recognised for a contribution to music that is not just about playing the music but the contribution made by volunteers who do all the background work".
Ms Repin said she has volunteered on many committees over the last four decades and played in many community orchestras.
She doesn't know who nominated her but it was nice to know people in the audience at concerts recognised the work that goes on behind the scenes by volunteers.
And the great thing was others in the Illawarra have been honoured before for doing such work.
"Musicians in this region do get recognised with awards. I join a distinguished group of musicians".