Known for her interest in children, the Governor-General chatted with a small delegation from Austinmer Public School, asking husband Michael to snap a photograph for her album.

"The children are so lovely and well-mannered, which gives me great delight because they represent the future of this community," she said.

In an emotional speech, she reflected on her family's history with Austinmer.

Her grandfather was a master carpenter at Appin mine, and her father, Norman Strachan, was born in Moore St, Austinmer, in 1899.

He was captain of the surf club from 1917 to 1919, during which he rescued a child from the surf and was rewarded with a job at the Botany woollen mills.

"My father instilled in me a great love for the sea," Ms Bryce said.

"I love visiting Austinmer and this very beautiful beach - it's a place that energises me."

Austinmer Surf Life Saving Club patron Noel Pickering, 94, recalled Mr Strachan as "a fine man".

"He was a big man, a great swimmer and very good to me as a kid," he said.

Ms Bryce's cousin John Mulford recalled her as a "lovely little girl" whom he used to push around in a stroller.

"We're all extremely proud of her for what she has achieved and not a bit surprised because she was so able, so focused and committed."

The anniversary luncheon, also attended by Ms Bryce's sister Diane Craddock, was followed by an anniversary dinner at Anita's Theatre at Thirroul.