David Lister has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for “service to the community of Nyngan through the Livestock Health and Pest Authority”.

The man who led the review, reform and amalgamation of 47 Rural Lands Protection Boards in NSW into 14 Livestock Health and Pest Authorities, said he was both shocked and thrilled by the awarding of the OAM.

“It probably sounds like a cliche... but it’s very humbling,” Mr Lister said.

“The reason it is so humbling is so many people do so much and probably aren’t rewarded.

“So it really does make you feel incredibly humble to be to be recognised for something that you always thought was your duty anyway.”

As a young farmer Mr Lister was tapped on the shoulder by a neighbour who asked him to consider filling a vacancy on the Pasture Protection Board at Nyngan.

The future community leader was told the work would be interesting, rewarding and he would find himself among like-minded people.

The advice proved correct, even as the organisation evolved and Mr Lister rose through its ranks.

He was chairman of the state council of the Rural Lands Protection Board when the necessary but difficult process of reform was launched.

Support had also been forthcoming at home in Nyngan where Mr Lister served as chairman of multiple organisations, including the Rural Lands Protection Board, Nyngan Drought Committee and Bogan Advisory Service, which offered financial guidance.

Mr Lister said the OAM was testimony to his family who endured his absenteeism, and proactive directors and staff who had the best interests of the community at heart.