Ms Selkirk, who takes the reins from long-time chairman Doug Jacka, is well credentialed having previously served on Port Stephens Legacy's executive committee and before that, was an active member of Sydney Legacy.

"Legacy has been a big part in my life over many years," she said.

"I started working with Sydney Legacy as Office Manager at the Manly Warringah Pittwater Division (now known as Northern Beaches Legacy) for a period of 16 years. When I left that position, I spent two years as a Legatee before moving to Nelson Bay in 2012 to retire with my husband.

"Since joining Port Stephens Legacy division in 2013, I have served on the executive as secretary and as a vice chair.

"I now look forward to my new role and working alongside my fellow Legatees in supporting our Legacy ladies and Legacy families in the Port Stephens region."

Mr Jacka will remain on the executive committee as vice chair, a role also held by Peter Polack.

Bob Brown, a Brigadier in the Australian Army before retiring is the new executive committee's new secretary while Foz Breckenridge, a reservist in the RAAF, takes up the role of treasurer, moving from his previous role as vice chair.

Legacy is committed to caring for the widows and children of those servicemen who have either died on active service or from resulting related injuries or illnesses.

The organisation was established in the early 1920s following the 'war the end all wars', World War I; then came World War II, soon followed by new conflicts in Korea and Vietnam.

Subsequently, Australian forces have been involved in hostilities and peace-keeping operations in locations around the world in areas such as Borneo, Malaya, Indonesia, Somalia, the Solomons, Rwanda, Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Legacy support service families in need.

In Port Stephens, 30 dedicated Legatees support some 250 widows and their dependents across the Tomaree and Tilligerry Peninsulas and Medowie.

Legacy's services include bereavement support, advocacy for pension entitlements, rights and benefits by trained and experienced pension officers, financial hardship relief and assistance with children's educational expenses.

Combatting social isolation, providing support to access community-based health and welfare services are also important elements of what Legacy provides.

Historically, Legatees were returned servicemen. Today, Legacy welcomes membership inquiries from people from all walks of life.

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