But from the kind words spoken at the morning tea at Great Lakes College, Tuncurry campus, it’s clear he has impressed both students and teachers alike on a much more personal level.

“He always attends functions and it makes you feel appreciated and valued – that you’re important,” college captain Coby Elms said.

For senior campus principal Stephen Nicholas, Mr Chadban has been an inspiration. In particular he noted some of the tough times including the Wallis Lake Oyster scare in 1997 and the threats to his leadership in 2005.

“He got on with the job and didn’t bad mouth people. He did it ethically and morally and I hope to aspire to that in my role.”

Both Coby and her fellow captain Jacob Leung hold fond memories of being invited to take part in Australia Day celebrations. Although slightly intimidated by Mr Chadban’s well-renown public speaking skills, both Jacob and Coby were asked to make their own speeches about what being Australian means to them.

Over the years Mr Chadban has encouraged greater involvement from school leaders in the various ceremonies on the day, and he hopes this will continue in the future.

In his trademark casual style, he responded to the kind words, and parting gift.

He also shared some words of advice – a simple mantra he has found helpful in times of strife: “never give up.”