The village was opened with a lavish ceremony including Maitland Mayor Loretta Baker after she and Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison were given a tour of the village’s clubhouse.

They acknowledged that Walka Grange contributed to the Maitland community in two diverse ways – via the residents who volunteer across a wide range of community services and its contribution in employing local businesses during construction.

More than 240 plus residents attended the afternoon event, where they were welcomed by a trio of violinists and mingled with various well-known special guests.

Paralympian Maddie Elliott and crime author Barry Maitland unveiled plaques for the indoor-pool and library areas of the complex that were named in their honour, to commemorate their contributions to the Maitland Community.