Two very special Dubbo centenarians have been awarded quilts by Quilts of Valour Australia.

The charity recognises veterans, service personnel of the Australian Defence Force, and the immediate families of fallen soldiers for their service, sacrifice, and valour for their country.

Local residents, Violet Palm and Betty Peter, were presented quilts and certificates by Quilts of Valour representatives, Pam and Chris Bellhouse, at a ceremony held at the Dubbo RSL drop-in centre earlier this month.

Mrs Bellhouse said it was a privilege to acknowledge these women for what they do and have done.

“Both ladies are in their hundredth year, Mrs Peter, celebrating her 100th birthday just a few weeks ago and Mrs Palm a little later this year,” she told Dubbo Photo News.

“Mrs Peter received her quilt in memory of the service of her husband, Jack Peter, a veteran of World WII.

“Mrs Palm received her quilt not only for the service of her husband, Albert Oliver Palm, who served in New Guinea but also for her own service during the second world war. She attained the rank of Corporal in the Australian Army and served as a Cypher in the Pacific region.”

Following the presentation, Dubbo RSL sub-branch president, Shaun Graham, gave the Ode and a minute silence was held.

Quilts of Valour Australia was established in 2012 by Helen Comport after a family member was injured in a Black Hawk helicopter incident in Afghanistan in 2010.

The wounded soldier was awarded a quilt from Quilts of Valour America and touched by the token, which inspired Mrs Valour to establish an Australian based organisation.

Today, the charity relies on the generous donation of quilts from quilters all over Australia who bequest their craft in appreciation of service men and women.