This Tuesday he was surprised to find the meeting was not quite normal this week.

His wife Ruth, orchestrated a community morning tea without him knowing.

He was awarded a nationwide lifetime membership for his extraordinary commitment to the legacy of soldiers.

He was recognised by the Kangaroo Flat Returned Servicemen's League for his outstanding contribution to the community.

As part of their regular meeting on a Tuesday, family members gathered at the Kangaroo Flat RSL hall to congratulate Mr Hosking on his award.

His wife organised their two children, Graham Hosking from Bendigo and Elizabeth Patterson from Mildura, to attend the event as part of the surprise.

Ruth Hosking said she had tricked her husband for four months trying to organise the morning tea.

She said she could not believe she pulled it off.

"He didn't know what was going on when I sent him to the shops to buy a new sports coat," she said.

"He wasn't sure what was going on."

Ms Patterson said her father was devoted to his RSL community.

"This is his thing," she said.

"Coming from a small country background, he has always been very community minded.

"It is great fellowship for him to be here."

Kangaroo Flat RSL club president Charlie Martin said Mr Hosking actively visits schools in support of the Anzac legacy.

"Bill and the RSL are intertwined," he said.

"He is actively involved."

Mr Hosking said he was surprised, though a few people accidentally mentioned the event.

He said his involvement in the club was a natural development.

He said the best part was "it kept him out of the pub."

Mr Hosking said he would continue to give his time to the club.

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