Nearly 90 church family members and folk from the Wingham community were in attendance and it was a wonderful afternoon for all who took the opportunity to say their farewells to the Prinables.

Well known op shop manager Brian Bridge was MC, calling the gathering to order before inviting Rev Barry to say grace.

Following the meal, several presentations and speeches were made including a presentation by Leonna Sky, president of St Matthew's Ladies Guild, Wingham, of a painting by local Tinonee artist Rod Spicer of a landscape across the Manning River looking from the vicinity of the rectory. 

Pam Muxlow on behalf of the ladies of St Luke's guild, made a presentation of a photo album of "Memories of Wingham Anglican Parish" with just a few of the many memories that have taken place during Barry and Ashley's time within the parish from August 2003 to May 2014. 

Christine Yarnold also spoke on behalf of St Mark's Marlee Church family and wished Barry and Ashley every happiness in their retirement and with the hope and invitation that they will keep in touch. 

Anne Rose, congregation member of St Matthew's and volunteer at Wingham Court, added her personal thank you and good wishes along with those of the residents who have come to know Barry and Ashley through their years of ministry. Barry and Ashley both made emotional responses with Ashley reading a short passage from the Bible that summed up their time and goals achieved whilst in Wingham.

Lots of photos were taken of the afternoon and will become lasting memories for Barry and Ashley as well as the church family and the final event was the cutting of the farewell cake by Barry and Ashley.

More from Pam Muxlow can be read here in her column Tinonee Topics.