Former Young resident Valerie Parv’s Order of Australia Medal (OAM) plus a painting of her has been gifted to the Harden Murrumburrah Arts Council.
Valerie was a leading Australian romance author.
Her books sold more than 34 million copies and were translated into 29 languages.
Sadly, she passed away in April, aged 69.
The precious gifts were donated by Valerie’s sister Leigh Fullagar and her husband Howard (both of Harden).
The donated work is by Tracey Warren, and had been entered into the Archibald Prize.
“The Harden Murrumburrah Arts Council is honoured to be chosen as a small part of Valerie Parv’s tremendous legacy,” said the Council’s President, Keith Ward.
“We appreciate the generosity of Valerie’s family in placing these items with us for everyone to see and enjoy.”
The OAM was awarded to Valerie in recognition of her outstanding achievements and service in the field of writing.
In 2020, Valerie published her memories in a book titled 34 Million Books: Australia’s Queen of Romance Shares Her Life and Writing Tips.
Valerie was married to her husband Paul for 38 years. He was her one and only hero.
He sadly passed away from cancer in 2008, with Valerie moving to Young a little while after.
