Four Maitland seniors honoured in NSW Seniors Festival awards

newy.com.au – Four Maitland residents have been recognised for their contribution to the community, receiving Local Senior of the Year awards as part of the NSW Seniors Festival 2026.

Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison presented the awards at an afternoon tea at East Maitland RSL Sub-branch, where Michele Keith, Rev John Wakefield, Keith Bush and Ruth King were honoured for their service.

Ms Keith was recognised for her lifelong dedication to wellbeing and mental health, including creating a space for the community to slow down, reconnect and find peace through the restoration of native habitats and support for wildlife, flora and fauna.

Rev Wakefield was honoured for founding the MUNCH program at Maitland Uniting Church, which has provided meals, connection and support to thousands of people in need for more than three decades.

Mr Bush was acknowledged for his years of service through East Maitland Rotary, his support of exchange students and his ongoing commitment to volunteering, mentoring and helping communities across Australia.

Ms King was celebrated for her leadership as president of the Maitland and Beyond Family History Society, preserving local history and guiding the organisation through challenging times.

The awards were presented as part of the NSW Seniors Festival 2026, which celebrates older people and encourages them to remain active and engaged in their communities. The festival ran from 2 to 15 March.

Ms Aitchison said it was a privilege to honour seniors whose work continued to strengthen the region.

“It was my pleasure to recognise the recipients of the Local Senior of the Year Awards here in Maitland. We are privileged to have an abundance of seniors who continue to uplift our growing community every day.

“Our seniors are the heart of Maitland – their knowledge, generosity and community spirit continue to shape the place we are so proud to call home.

“This year’s NSW Seniors Festival theme, Live Life in Colour, is a beautiful reminder to stay connected, stay active and embrace every opportunity to be part of our vibrant community.”

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said the festival, now in its 68th year, remained an important part of the NSW Government’s support for older people.

“As part of the festival there were almost 50 NSW Government run and sponsored events happening across the state designed specifically for our older community members,” Minister Harrison said.

“On top of this, there were dozens more events organised by councils and other organisations, ranging across sports, culture, nature and food, so there was plenty on offer for everyone.

“The NSW Government is committed and continuing to realise our vision of creating a state where seniors reap the benefits of living longer, more active lives.”