About 70 people, including the Mayors of Maitland and Newcastle, shared lunch in the Rainbow Room at Beresfield Bowling Club. 

Association secretary Margaret Hurn said the group usually gathered each Monday and took part in a range of social activities, including bingo, card games and guest speakers.

She said the association was always ready to welcome new members.

“It’s all happening – we try to make it as interesting as we can,” Ms Hurn said.