John Gelling, who received the OAM in 2013 for his service to education and to the teaching profession through a range of leadership roles, his wife Elsie and their dog Benji left their Murrumbateman home for Merimbula on Thursday, March 23.

Asked about the impetus for the move, John said the coastal lifestyle was easier for a life in retirement.

“We’re getting old, I’m over 80 and Elsie’s not far behind. So a five acre place is now more than what we can manage,” he said.

Elsie, who was also in education as a librarian, most notably at Dickson College, said that once the decision was made, the packing was the tedious part and they just wanted to be in Merimbula as soon as possible.

In their three decades, beginning in 1984, the couple said growth in Murrumbateman was a highlight.

“When we came here, we were the third house along the street and there were about 300 people. Now there’s 3000 and lots of changes to the demographics and social amenity,” John said.

While John is no longer directly in education, he said his passion for the industry is still alive.

“It’s so important to help young people get ahead and a job, to help them contribute to society,” he said.

After John retired as principal of Holder High School, he became a member of the NSW Board of Studies and the Vocational Education and Training Advisory Committee, the latter of which he says is as crucial as other education pathways.

“Tafe is such a critical aspect in society. We call it the second-chance system for kids who have been alienated or dropped out of school. It’s also a lifeline for those who want better chances at obtaining more work.”

On advising the region before they left, the couple said residents and those in leadership positions must embrace change and growth, saying history has shown positive outcomes.

“Although the villages have lost their little country nature, the community as a whole has benefited from the growth. One thing I’d like to see is a new school here,” John said.

“As well, the duplication of the Barton Highway – it was discussed and set to happen about 15 years ago but nothing has changed. People don’t want band-aids, they want a duplication,” he said.

As for what they will miss the most, the Gellings pointed to close friends and neighbours.

“Someone I'll miss enormously will be an Aboriginal Elder – Eric Bell. Such a lovely person and I usually never see him without getting a big hug,” Elsie said.

For John, he praised a couple in council. “I'd like to give Rowena Abbey and Michael McManus a big wrap for helping Yass avoid the problems of mergers. Those two particularly get a wrap for making sure Yass stands alone” he said.

While it was hard to leave, the Gellings said there were compensating factors.

“We look forward to the fresh seafood, though. And we know some people down that way anyway,” John said.

Their house was bought by a longtime friend.