Old Bar, or the Lifesavers as they were known, won the first grade premiership for the first time since 1946. To make it even sweeter for their loyal supporters, Old Bar defeated arch rivals Taree United 24-20 in the grand final.

This was only the fourth time since the war that two Taree clubs met in the decider. Taree Browns Creek beat Old Bar in 1951, Taree United trounced Old Bar in 1971 while it was a closer affair in 1973 when United again prevailed over Old Bar. Ironically, Ron Boden, who was captain-coach of United's premiership winning team in 1971, was the non playing coach of Old Bar's 1978 side.

The 1978 clash was also the last time the Taree clubs clashed in a grand final. Old Bar went onto win five consecutive first grade premierships - a Group Three record.

Wingham finished the 1978 minor premiers after dominating the season-proper, but lost the major semi-final to Old Bar and then the final to United. United beat Forster-Tuncurry in the minor semi-final in the era when all finals matches were played at the Group Three Leagues Ground (now Jack Neal Oval) at Chatham.

It was a stellar year for Wingham centre Terry McCartney, who scored an amazing 38 tries - a record that still stands today and is unlikely to ever be challenged.

Seven clubs, Taree Old Bar, Taree United, Wingham, Forster-Tuncurry, Wauchope, Port Macquarie and Gloucester contested the 1978 season. Wauchope won the reserve grade with Taree United taking out the under 18s.

While the club is now defunct, Taree Old Bar still holds an annual get-together or muster day. It has been confirmed this year's gathering will be on Saturday August 1 at the Taree Leagues and Sports Club from noon. It is open to all past players, committee members and supporters.