Rugby owes me nothing: Pilecki

Legendary Wallabies prop Stan Pilecki can't help but chuckle about being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

"I wouldn't be me if it weren't for rugby - I owe it a lot," he told AAP.

"I think it is funny I am the one getting a reward."

Born in a German refugee camp, Pilecki's family of Polish descent emigrated to Australia in 1950.

Growing up in Brisbane, Pilecki thought the best way to meet people was to play social rugby so lobbed at Brisbane Bulldogs Wests Rugby Club.

"They became my family," said Pilecki who played 250 games for Wests (1967-88) and is still involved with the club.

He became the first player to earn 100 Queensland caps (122 overall from 1975-85).

The Pilecki Medal for Queensland Reds Players' Player is named in his honour.

He played 18 Tests for the Wallabies, including the 1984 grand slam tour.

"When I came through you did it for your mates, not money," said Pilecki, now 67, known for playing with his cigarettes tucked into his socks.

"I am still involved in the game but it has changed so much - it's disappointing to see sport is a business now."

Meanwhile, Brennon Dowrick (gymnastics) and David Forbes (yachting) have also been awarded an OAM.

Dowrick is a dual Olympian, won 11 Commonwealth Games medals, including two gold, and contested seven world championships.

Forbes is a three-time Olympian, including 1972 gold (International Star class), a 1970 world champion (5.5m class) and winner of 10 Australian Championships in a range of classes.

A member of 1970 America's Cup challenger Gretel II, he was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1988.