For Mr Legge, the biggest change had been the role of the council.

"It wasn't until the amalgamation (into Break O'Day Council in 1993) that we started getting paid," Mr Legge said.

Mr Legge was a councillor for 47 years and mayor of Break O'Day Council from 1993 until his retirement in 2011.

He was on the Local Government Association of Australia board for four years and was involved in the health sector on the state's East Coast.

Mr Legge's dedication has resulted in recognition with an Order of Australia Medal for service to local government and to the community.

"I've met a colossal amount of people," Mr Legge said.

"And I've learnt a colossal amount."

He had advice for prospective members of local government saying people needed to be "fully dedicated".

"Think before you leap, and instead of reinventing the wheel, pick up on the ground work someone else has done."

According to Mr Legge, a good councillor talks to the community, stays involved and listens to what's required.

"And it's give and take," he said.

He advised them to be prepared: "It's a very personal thing, it's an impost on family - lots of travelling and being away from home."

The St Marys resident said his family had been involved in the community since his great, great grandfather arrived at Fingal in the late 19th century.

"He helped build the community," Mr Legge said.

Mr Legge's eldest son, Michael, is president of the Red Cross.

"It's liking to do things for people, their surroundings not falling to pieces and concern for the people in them."