An organisation spokesperson said the combined input is “something not likely to be emulated”, and their careers have been “a towering achievement of service and good judgement”.

“Mr Butterworth and Ms Miller were responsible for growing this organisation to what it is today, and they always had the health and viability of the organisation at the forefront of their actions,” they said.

“The organisation they were responsible for has a proud reputation as a provider of top quality care and management for our clients, Jim and Kathy always ensured our countries aged and in some cases infirmed deserves the best, not the mediocre, which sometimes makes the headlines.

“Jim and Kathy have made decisions individually and collectively during the past 35 years which has resulted in the physical wellbeing of the Sapphire Coast Community Aged Care Group.”

In their farewell speeches Mr Butterworth told staff “to keep up their good work”, he said they had been a great team to work with and through their hard work, kindness, friendship and appreciation he was able to lead the organisation to where it is today.

“Teamwork allows common people to attain uncommon results,” Ms Miller said.

“Happiness is the consequence of personal effort – you fight for it, strive for it and insist upon it always”.

The spokesperson said the pair will be sorely missed, however their passion for teamwork and happiness will continue at Sapphire Coast Community Aged Care, with new CEO Matt Sierp now in the role.

“On behalf of the Sapphire Coast Community Aged Care Group, we thank Jim and Kathy in leaving the organisation in the great shape it is today,” they said.

The not-for profit group overlooks Hillgrove House, Casuarina and Imlay House aged care centres, Sapphire Coast Home Services and The Oaks Country Village.