Even while having their photo taken in a patch of Robertson rainforest they helped to restore, the Tranters stop walking to pull out a stray weed, or verbally note to each other what work needs to be done.

It's this diligence in improving and preserving their local environment that has seen the Tranters both receive Medals of the Order of Australia (OAM) for their service to the Wingecarribee community through environmental and local heritage conservation.

Since moving to Robertson 19 years ago the couple has been involved in a variety of projects helping to improve the surrounding region.

The Tranters co-founded the Robertson Environment Protection Society in 1990, with David serving as the inaugural vice-president and Helen serving as secretary for six years and president for two years.

The group has worked hard to preserve endangered environmental areas in Robertson, as well as educate residents about the unique environmental features of the area through various book publications.

The Tranters have also been involved in preserving the built environment, with both involved in the Robertson Railway Station preservation project and Helen involved in the establishment and maintenance of a history museum on the site.

David also devotes much of his time to working with the local Aboriginal population through his involvement with the Wingecarribee Reconciliation Group, the Wingecarribee Shire Council Indigenous Advisory Group and as a Wingecarribee Representative for the NSW Reconciliation Council.

Both the Tranters have had a long involvement with the National Parks Association of NSW, and David has also been involved with the Wingecarribee Swamp Management Committee for the Sydney Catchment Authority and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Helen has also been involved on various environmental committees for Wingecarribee Shire Council, co-ordinated the Robertson Nature Reserve weeding program and is a member of the Australian Plant Society.