Life members John Edmunds, Ray Milton and Dave Sadler between them notched up more than 75 years of service to the club.

Newly elected president Jeff Sollitt, a former New Zealand representative halfback who moved to Nelson Bay a decade ago, paid tribute to the departing trio.

"John, Ray and Dave have all played important roles in the growth and development of the Gropers and deserve a lot of credit for maintaining the club's position in the premier competition," Sollitt said.

"Their absence will be felt and it's our job to move ahead ... there will not be any significant changes and we are still awaiting confirmation of the competition format for season 2016.

"At present it looks like we will be fielding only three teams but no decision has been made on the colts.

"Once we have all that information than we can call for expressions of interest in the coaching positions."

Edmunds, a founding member and the club's first secretary, said sporting administration had changed during the 30 years of his involvement.

"The administration gets tougher every year.

"I won't miss the hours of [voluntary] work, the 80 odd emails a week, that goes into running this club," he said.

"We are talking about a $110,000 a year business."

Milton, a close ally of Edmunds who had spent 20-plus years on and off the committee, said it was time to hand over the reins for fresh ideas. Milton is also secretary/president of the Gropers golden oldies.

Sadler, who played more than 300 games for the club, said he was looking forward to spending more time with family, especially the couple's recently arrived first child.