A couple of former residents who spent decades making Maitland a better place to live have been formally recognised for their contributions.
Local champions John Partridge and Irene Hemsworth were posthumously inducted into Maitland’s Hall of Fame this week, each for their enduring impacts throughout the community.
The pair was acknowledged alongside Matt Lantry, Lindsay Guy and Tom Danilidis during a special ceremony at the Maitland Park Rotunda on Friday 25 November.
Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold paid tribute to the incredible achievements of each inductee.
“Their passions, commitment and generosity have contributed to the vibrancy of our city in unique ways, shaping our community,” he said.
“Their stories are an inspiration to us all… and generations will remember their legacy.”
The late Mr Partridge was honoured for his dedication of nearly 80 years to Maitland’s retail and community life.
Starting as a young retail employee, he eventually became the owner of McDonalds Booksellers and Stationers, serving generations of locals.
Known for his generosity, wit and passion of Maitland, he supported schools, art groups and charities, often using his shop to host events and fundraisers.
His lifelong commitment left a lasting mark on the city, making him a beloved figure in the community.
The late Ms Hemsworth also spent her life making a difference in Maitland.
From her early teens, she gave her time to schools, sporting clubs, churches and community groups.
She also supported hundreds of locals through teaching, coaching, volunteering and fundraising.
Recognised as a Freeman of the City of Maitland (2014), Citizen of the Year (1989) and posthumously awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2025, Ms Hemsworth’s work strengthened the fabric of the community.
Her daughter, Janine Wilkinson, accepted the Hall of Fame accolade on her mother’s behalf.
“We were blown away when we heard that she was going to be inducted,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“She sat on 12 committees, even at her death, and she was a beloved member at most of those committees.
“She believed that belonging to community meant giving back to it.
“Her faith was truly inspiring and really defines who she was.
“There are four of us kids and there’s no way all of us combined could do as much as she did in her lifetime.
“She would have met this honour with absolute humility.
“Her love for Maitland and dedication to helping others always kept her busy well past midnight.”
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