It was a bitter-sweet occasion in 1989 when the first posthumously awarded Roll of Renown plaque was unveiled in honour of The Hawking Brothers.

Renowned for their impeccable harmonies and acoustic instrument prowess, Russ (born 1931) and Alan (1933) formed a hugely successful band from a background of live radio shows with The Hillbilly Club and Melbourne Trailblazers.

The Hawks had a prolific recording career dating from as early as 1955 when they first recorded for the Regal Zonophone label. In 1975 they toured Canada and the USA and became the only Australian band to play America's Grand Ole Opry. When Russ died in 1976, the band continued under Alan's direction. They disbanded in 1980 with Alan going solo until his death in 1988.

The Hawking Bros won Golden Guitars in 1974 and 1978 (Alan winning solo awards in 1983 and 1985).They produced many hits, and having such meticulous arrangements, even made hits from some of their cover versions including the likes of Catfish John, Bringing Mary Home and One Day At A Time in 1978.