Earlier this month Catholic priests Carl Mackander and Laurie Beath announced they would be leaving in February and now St Andrew's minister Simon Hansford has announced he too will be moving on.

"I've been in Dubbo 12 years, which is two years longer than normal," Reverend Hansford said.

"Dubbo was my first posting as a minister and it holds a significant place in my heart.

"My wife Fiona and I will miss the many friends we have made and who have supported us during our time here."

Reverend Hansford was meant to transfer to another church two years ago but his congregation asked the church's governing body if he could stay for a couple more years to implement some new ministry strategies.

"The church needed a change in focus on how it delivered its ministry," Rev Hansford said.

"We had to change from the old attitude of, 'Here is the church, you come in here'.

"That model used to work but it doesn't anymore, so now we go out to the people.

"We have developed children and youth programs and Geraldine Clarkson operates the West Dubbo Mission from her store at Scot's Corner.

"The church has to get out and minister to the people.

"We have to be a relevant part of people's lives and weave ourselves into the community rather than impose ourselves on it."

Rev Hansford said he and his family were looking forward to their move to Queanbeyan in February and the challenges that move will bring.

"Queanbeyan is a slightly more multicultural community than Dubbo so it could present us with a few more challenges," he said.

"But it will no doubt be exciting and we are all looking forward to our new life down there.

"Plus I should be able get to a few Brumbies tickets so it will have its advantages."

A farewell service for Rev Hansford is to be held at St Andrew's Uniting Church Wingewarra Street on Sunday January 19 at 5pm.