Farrell has been recognised by the league after 15 years in an executive role with the Magpies.

After serving as Wangaratta and District Junior Football League secretary for 40 years, Farrell was poached by the Pies to fill the role at Ovens and Murray level.

"I've been running their bingo for about 15 years, that's one of the bigger things I do down at the Maggies," Farrell said.

"I tend to go in boots and all with anything I get involved in, most of the time that's why it all happens.

"Not that you go into it to get life memberships, but it's great to get that recognition.

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"This is a really special one. It was probably one I least expected to get, but if it came my way all well and good.

"It's a really big honour.

"A lot of people that are life members of the league I've known over the years and it's a great thrill."

Farrell, who will continue as secretary in 2020, was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease 12 months ago and said his off-field duties help keep him going.

"When it happened, the specialist said for me not to stop anything I've been doing," he said.

Farrell hails from Deniliquin and played football at Deniliquin, Jerilderie, North Wagga and Goorambat.

He's also a life member of the Wangaratta and District Junior Football League, Wangaratta Showgrounds committee of management, Benalla Swimming Club, Benalla Auto Club, Wangaratta Umpires Board and Wangaratta and District Cricket Association as an umpire.

"I've been a track-side official at Winton for 52 years," he added.

"My job with the Supercars is on the pit exit when they come back onto the track.

"The hardest thing is getting a mixture between that and football because football is on Saturday and the car races are Saturdays and Sundays.

"I have to weigh up which one is more important on the day (laughs)."

Farrell will officially be presented his Ovens and Murray life membership at next year's Morris Medal count.