That's an ethos Rosemary and Terry Bennett have lived their entire lives by, and try to instill in their children and grandchildren.

The business pioneers have worked hard to develop two businesses in southern Tasmania, Home Hill Winery and a petroleum business, that they say came about from a chance job offer years ago.

However, they say now they want to instill in their grandchildren that hard work in business isn't always the only way to contribute to the community - but it's about being involved as volunteers.

Mrs Bennett said they were offered the opportunity to be an agent for a petrol company and since then, over the years, they have grown to be a successful business in their own right and employ about 120 Tasmanians.

"We both came from humble beginnings but we have always committed ourselves to put in what had to be done [to be successful]," Mrs Bennett said.

The pair are being recognised this year as part of the Australia Day Honours, and will receive an OAM each for their contribution to the Huon Valley community and through their winery.

Mrs Bennett said the winery, which started in 1992, began its life as a hobby for her husband.

"We planted a few rows, then we planted a few more, then we discovered that we had another business on our hands," she said.

Today, Home Hill Vineyard has an internationally recognised reputation, and is home to a first-class cellar door and restaurant.

From 2017-2019 their wine won Best Red Wine in Show at the Australian and New Zealand Boutique Wine Show and Home Hill was awarded Vineyard of the Year in 2015.

Mrs Bennett said she and her husband felt privileged to receive the OAM and said it would be a great legacy for her family.