But before the well-known cleric and his wife Caroline bid their farewells, they are saying a heartfelt thank you to the community for all the friendship extended.

The couple is moving to Geelong next month and will be hosting a farewell at the Holy Trinity Church on July 10 from 6pm.

Bishop Danaher said they would like their farewell to be viewed as thanksgiving to the many good people they had encountered.

“There are so many generous, open-hearted and down-to-earth people in this community,” he

said.

“We would like these people to gather together with us so we can say thanks.”

Bishop Danaher said he and his wife would leave Dubbo with a great sense of satisfaction.

“We have very mixed feelings about leaving,” he said.

“There is a sense of sadness but also a sense of achievement.

“But we will miss this country.”

The couple has been a part of not only the Anglican church, but also education and the arts for almost 13 years.

“We really have valued our time here,” Bishop Danaher said.

“Caroline has taught many students and has had her own wonderful and exciting time with people.

“We would really love to be able to see some of these people before we go.”

Archdeacon John Stead will take over Bishop Danaher’s position.

“I know the people will be very well looked after,” Bishop Danaher said.

“They have a lot of perseverance and are great at sticking together.”

Bishop Danaher said he had come across a lovely Irish blessing recently that reflected their departure: ‘Don’t cry because it is over, but smile because it has happened’.

The Danahers leave Dubbo on July 15.

They will be based in Geelong at the All Saints’ parish in Newtown.

lucy.rowles

@ruralpress.com