Mary recently attended the 18th annual Canberra and Area Theatre Awards (CAT Awards).
The awards recognise outstanding performances and back stage contributions by non-professional theatre groups and schools in Canberra and the wider region.
Along with legendary performers Tony Lamond and John Wood, Mary is a long-serving patron.
"It is great to see our community recognising the wonderful talent we have both here and in the region," Mary said.
On the night, Mary also announced that she would be funding a perpetual professional development scholarship to assist a young person to further their theatrical career.
Mary presented the inaugural scholarship, valued at $2,500, to Pete Ricardo to assist with his theatrical studies at an academy in Melbourne.
"I have watched Pete develop over the last five years and I am pleased to be able to help him as he takes this next step in his career."
Among the other awards presented was the prestigious Gold Cat which this year was awarded to Mr. Romko Hordynsky.