[2] Allen first arrived in Antarctica in 1985, working as an Observer for BOM at Macquarie Island.
[5][6] After 29 years with BOM, Allen retired[1] and has worked with the ANARE Club as National Social Secretary and Information Technology co-ordinator.
[7] On June 21, 1989, Allen was awarded the Australian Government's Australian Antarctic Medal for outstanding service as a pioneer for women in Antarctica and in support of general expedition duties and Antarctic research.
[8] She was presented with the 1989 Antarctic Medal at Government House, Melbourne on 25 October 1989 by the Governor of Victoria, Dr Davis McCaughey.
Denise and fellow 1989 medal recipient, Medical Officer Diana Lynn Williams,[2] are jointly the first women to receive the award.