The Softball Tasmania president was recognised for her tireless work within the sport this week, receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia.

It is not the first time her contribution has been rewarded on the public holiday, with the 64-year-old named as a recipient of a City of Launceston Australia Day Sports Award in 2016.

She described her latest honour as “very humbling”. 

“It was a big shock to receive the letter,” she said.

“It is an honour to receive this award and the support received from my husband Graeme and family, the board of Softball Tasmania, the Northern Tasmanian Softball Association and Saints Softball Club has been greatly appreciated during my time in executive positions.”

After beginning her playing career on a recommendation from a friend, Mrs Burnie has gone on to occupy roles at every administrative level of the sport.

She has been president of Softball Tasmania since 2002, while also holding the position of finance officer, which she began in 2011.

Mrs Burnie remains the secretary for the Northern Tasmanian Softball Association and the Saints Softball Club, where she coaches the men’s team.

Her love of the game has extended to her daughters and her granddaughter, who have all picked up a bat at some point.

The Softball Tasmania life member said her passion for softball remained the same, even if its profile within Tasmania had changed.

“There were definitely a lot more teams playing when I first started in the game,” she said.

“It was played in schools back then, which it is isn’t now. 

“There is an after school group that gets together to play, so we are trying to bring it back.

“The members of softball community, who are all volunteers, work extremely hard to promote our sport and to see softball recognised and spoken about in the wider community.”