A man who has practised the philosophy of peace on earth to all men throughout his lifetime bowed out of local government at the county council’s Christmas party.

He is Mr Clive Theodore Chapman, chief administrative officer of Oxley County Council since its inception in 1943.

Mr. Chapman came to Port Macquarie during a turbulent period in 1936; the then town clerk was under suspension. As those troubled times righted themselves the imperturbable Clive Chapman remained a steadying influence, just as he was when the shire and municipality amalgamated to form Oxley County Council.

Last Thursday night’s Christmas party, a combined affair for the outdoor and indoor staff of the council, was at West Port Macquarie Bowling Club.

Two presentations were made to Mr. Chapman and his wife Hazel at the party. Clive was given an easy chair and the crystal whisky set for their home was a gorgeous gift.

Assisted by the county clerk, Mr. Eric Doyle, councillor Norrie Thompson, present chairman of Oxley County Council, conducted proceedings and presented Hazel Chapman with a lovely sheath of flowers.

Representatives of local government in this and surrounding areas were present, along with many local and district people; the OCC staff and their wives lifted the attendance beyond two hundred.

Councillor Thompson said the purpose of the great big gathering at a happy Christmas party was to recognise and pay tribute to the services of Mr. Chapman to Oxley County Council for a period of 24 years.

Mr. Chapman, he said, had watched the OCC grow from nothing to the huge undertaking it is today. Councillor Thompson then wished both Mr. and Mrs. Chapman years of happiness in their retirement.

On behalf of the indoor staff, Mr. John Jeffries of Wauchope, said it was the quiet and likeable manner of Mr. Chapman that had moulded an efficient working unit within the OCC/

“Most of us went there from school and found Mr. Chapman encouraging and helpful,” Mr. Jeffries said.

Responding to the speakers Mr. Chapman said how much he appreciated the occasion and the remarks made. He said he had enjoyed his associations with all three councils — the shire, municipal, and county council.

How things have changed can be measured by Mr. Chapman’s remark he was the staff when he came to the municipal council in 1936-37. 

He said his transition to the county council was a fortunate step and, with the development that had taken place, he was able to look back on it with pride in the knowledge he had played at least some small part.

Mr. Chapman praised the staff of the OCC and said it had been wonderful to have the backing of each individual member. He concluded his re-marks with “the best of good wishes” to his successor Mr. Eric Doyle.

The Christmas Party was certainly a joyous occasion and the food and fare wonderful. Dancing was enjoyed at the conclusion of the presentation.