However, the regional office of Red Cross was not deterred this week, presenting Gladys with one of its highest honours. Mrs Brenner was presented with the Power of Humanity citation at Monday’s Forbes branch meeting, as part of Volunteers Week (May 13-19).

Gladys has been a member of the humanitarian organisation’s Forbes branch for more than 30 years, joining in 1982.

She has served as president twice, but it is her ongoing contribution to Red Cross which earned her the citation, presented by Country Zone 23 representative, Sue Strahorn.

Ms Strahorn gave a summary of Gladys’ contributions over the past three decades, which includes regularly representing the Red Cross at local Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services and helping with the organisation’s fundraisers and other annual activities.

Mrs Brenner was thankful for the award, but said volunteers do not expect reward for their contribution.

“You don’t do these things for reward but because you have the time to give,” she said.

While in Forbes, Ms Strahorn also presented certificates to everyone who contributed to the recent Red Cross Calling campaign.

She said more than $5400 had been raised by the Forbes branch alone during the March campaign.

Recipients of thanks included Gladys Brenner, Gloria Wright, Coral McConnell, Doreen Rogers, Wilma Hepburn, Jean McIntosh and Barbara Hoswell.

Gloria Haley, Faye McInerney, Lesley Ridley, Laurel Hull, Diane Findley and Nicholson Petroleum were other recipients, but were unable to attend Monday’s meeting.

For information about the Australian Red Cross and its activities, visit www.redcross.org.au.