The Lady Cutler Award is a bi-ennial award, administered by the CBCA NSW Branch, for Distinguished Service to Children’s Literature. It commemorates the contribution to the Children’s Book Council NSW Branch by Lady Helen Cutler, its first patron, accepting the appointment in 1966, when her husband Sir Roden Cutler became Governor of New South Wales. Lady Cutler continued as Patron of the CBCA NSW Branch until her death in 1990. Lady Cutler saw her role as one of service to the community. She recognised the needs of children and encouraged CBCA NSW Branch members to advance the cause of children’s literature throughout the state.

While many have made a significant contribution in this area, their work was often unrecognised, so, in 1981 the CBCA NSW Branch, headed by then President, Eddie Coffey inaugurated the Lady Cutler Award, with sponsorship from Hodder & Stoughton. From 2012 the award came full circle with Eddie Coffey giving the Cameo prize in the name of his company, Peribo. The winner receives:​

 

• A framed certificate beautifully illustrated  and donated by Donna Rawlins;

• A cameo (brooch or pendant) donated by Peribo.

• The recipient’s name engraved on the base of the perpetual trophy which is a Wedgewood vase.

• The honour of retaining the vase until the succeeding award presentation.​