The Officer of the Order of Australia is given to individuals who have given a recognised amount of service to Australia or humanity.

Manners’ distinction was part of the Queen’s Birthday Honour List on Monday, highlighting his “distinguished service to the minerals and mining sectors, and to youth through philanthropic support for education initiatives”.

The 84-year-old was born and raised in Kalgoorlie and comes from a family with close ties to the mining industry.

Manners founded Croesus Mining in 1988, which was previously one of the country’s largest gold producers.

By 1997, Manners founded the Mannkal Economic Education Foundation which trains and sponsors 2000 young students to receive internships and attend conferences across the globe.

Manners has also published seven books and a number of articles based on mining and economic education.

Providing distinguished service through these different fields contributed to Manners receiving the national award.

“I accept this award with pride and humility,” Manners said.

“I am truly touched and humbled to receive this award in recognition for my contribution to mining and educational sectors. This award is shared with the many people who have guided me over the years.

“I have been very fortunate in my life to have enjoyed a long and successful career in the mining industry and to have this opportunity to use my experience to help our next generation.

“It has been a privilege to be a part of Mannkal Economic Education Foundation and to have equipped so many students with the knowledge and confidence to help make the world a better place.

“I would like to thank my wife Jenny, who encourages me in my productive pursuits, Executive Assistant Judy Carroll – who has worked with me for nearly 20 years, and Mannkal Foundation Executive Director Andrew Pickford for his tireless work behind the scenes.”