Roy Robertson, one of country racing's stalwarts and committee official in the Manning area, passed away after a long illness on Monday.
He was for more than 20 years on the committees of the Wingham Race Club, Taree-Wingham Race Club and the Manning Valley Race Club. He oversaw the amalgamation of the Wingham and Krambch race clubs into the Manning Valley Race Club before retiring.
His popularity was witnessed in a position he liked as the committee member to welcome winning owners and their friends with a drink and food in the hospitality lounge.
He had a Scottish brogue and delighted in being involved in racing horses in syndicates and telling jokes. He was always the first to roll up his sleeves when there was a working bee.
His contributions were recognised with him being appointed on the board of the Mid North Coast Racing Association which administers all race clubs in the area.
Greg Coleman, Chairman of the Manning Valley Race Club where Roy was a life member, said Roy had a cheerful outlook and was a great asset for country racing over the decades.