Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams officially opened the 12-room extension at Rotary Lodge on March 20.

The extension brings the number of rooms to 36.

Mr Walesby and Mr Marocco, who were instrumental in Rotary Lodge’s development over the years, each had a wing named in their honour.

Mr Walesby accepted the naming honour on behalf of initial committee members.

He thanked the committee for the decision to give his name to the first building of 24 units.

“I am extremely proud and I deem it a great honour that the building has been so named,” Mr Walesby said.

“I can think of nothing that would give me more pleasure and satisfaction.”

Mr Marocco said in 2007, the committee realised the need for further expansion.

“I’m sure you all agree with me that this looks a great building with a long and satisfactory future fulfilling the need in step with the hospital’s expansion,” he said.

“I am very honoured to have my name associated with this building.”

Mr Marocco recognised his fellow committee members, Paula Johnson’s excellent management and the community, Rotary and other service clubs for their support.

Rotary Lodge Board chairman Phil Hafey said Rotary Lodge was one of the largest, if not the largest, Rotary project in Australia.

Its core clients are patients, carers and relatives of people staying in hospital.

Rotary Lodge manager Paula Johnson said Rotary Lodge was a great example of Rotary and community support.

Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams said the building and the way it operated reflected what our community was all about.