A member of the club since 1991, Mrs Barker served as publicity officer of the club for six years, but is probably best-known for her persistence in establishing the rose gardens at her beloved Peace Park.

In inducting Mrs Barker to their list of life members, Kiama Garden Club president Helen Curll said she was a lady who was very hard to say "no" to.

"When Winsome wants something done, she kindly persuades until the person consents and the park has literally bloomed since she got involved, raising much-needed funds through the bricks which are placed along the pathway.

"In the end her work was recognised by the naming of the pergola in the park in her honour."

Mrs Barker said she was delighted to be made a life member.

"I want to thank former Mayor Joyce Wheatley for the work she did in establishing Peace Park in the first place and for everyone in the Garden Club for this honour - it is a shock, but also a lovely surprise," she said.