The members have amassed 112 years continuous community service between them - and are still going strong.

Charter member, and local farmer Dal Osborn was recognised for 59 years community service while local motor dealer identity Norm Burton celebrated 53 years' service.

In fact Mr Burton acknowledged that it was Mr Osborn who first introduced him to Rotary all those years ago.

During the presentation, the men reflected on the activities they have seen the club engaged in, and the changes that have occurred in Rotary over the years.

"The Rotary that Dal and Norm joined is immensely different to the one so many enjoy today," Club President Glenda Briggs said.

"They joined in a time when Rotary was a men only club. But those days are gone ... today our club has grown to number 40 members - and 20 of those are women."

She also went on to point out that these days the club has a far wider range of ages than ever before - with members ranging from under 30 to over 70, with most under 60 years of age.

"Membership has always been a wonderful opportunity for friendship," Mr Burton said up upon receiving his Life Membership.

"The calibre of those early members helped shape my business knowledge all those years ago."

Mr Osborn was equally glowing of his long association with Rotary.

"Looking back on it, being invited to join Rotary was one of the greatest things that has happened to me," he said.

"The friendships and opportunity to help the community, and those in need ... it has been incredibly rewarding."

But it wasn't just the two men in the spotlight: their wives were acknowledged too. The presentations culminated with the presentation of Rotary Paul Harris Fellows to Maurine Osborn and another posthumously to Maureen Burton, who was represented by all her family members.

The ladies were described by Past President Brian Coffey as "matriarchs in their field for their life... supporting their husbands, family, business and Rotary".

Do you know you can subscribe to get full access to all Maitland Mercury stories? Subscribing supports us in our local news coverage. To subscribe, click here.