Grey skies hung heavy above, but inside the Port Macquarie City Bowling Club the mood was friendly as retirees from the two disciplines mixed over sandwiches.

Guests were greeted by Superintendent Paul Fehon, from the Mid North Coast Local Area Command, who noted the history behind the occasion.

"I trust you will leave with the knowledge our modern successes are due to your work over many years," Superintendent Fehon said.

The region's top cop respectfully asked retired colleagues not to circulate any embarrassing stories or bad habits among the younger police in the room.

Superintendent David Gray said he was grateful to be celebrating firefighters with other emergency services personnel.

"We really appreciate your support and actual enthusiasm," he said to his police colleagues.

One of the biggest stars was the dog squad's intrepid labrador Gilby, who received rapturous applause during a drug drill.

A moment's silence was marked for the contributions of the recently deceased, including Retired Police patron Bill Gasnier.