IT has been a good and valuable innings, but Jim Crombie has finished his time as a court chaplain.
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Mr Crombie is retiring because of issues with his health.
The often smiling and cheeky but always non-judgemental face is familiar at the Port Macquarie Local Court.
But many people would be unaware he goes out of his way to help those in need at other judiciaries, including Thursday's sessions at Wauchope.
When health concerns prevented him from driving north to Kempsey Local Court, he put his ingenuity and smile to good use. Solicitors began giving him lifts up the Pacific Highway and back each week, with the only interruption coming when a group of legal eagles went on holiday.
And that's the mark of the man and his mission: most lawyers treat every person at the courthouse with a degree of suspicion, be they police or journalist or registry staff.
Yet Mr Crombie was always regarded with a courteous wave and nod, usually as he was listening to someone experiencing stress and difficulty.
Solicitor Tas Tasdemir was full of praise for the spiritual toiler.
"He's always been a lovely guy, it's sad to see him go," he said.
The Aboriginal Legal Service's Ernie Magni worked alongside the chaplain for many years.
He said the role needed a special type of person.
"The courts can be lonely places.
"When you're without friends, it's good to have someone there for you.
"He's a good-hearted Salvo, and thank god for them."
Even sergeant Jason France was unusually complimentary about a man who listened to those the police want to prosecute.
"He puts up with a lot and has done a good job," the officer said.
Mr Crombie was recruited by Charles Lloyd Jones, and said he's enjoyed the gig since stepping into the big shoes.
"I have fun talking to all sorts of people, even newspaper blokes, and solicitors and every one else," he said.
"I don't seem to do much down there, but by the same token people say I do help.
"I think it's the uniform that makes the difference, and beyond that I just enjoy talking to people."
He's spent his time since stepping away from the court developing his computer skills and helping two days a week with respite care.
"I've got just enough on to keep me out of mischief."
The Salvation Army is currently searching for a new court chaplain.
ben.cooper@fairfaxmedia.com.au
