There were a few tears shed on Friday, but for the most part long-time music teacher at Bega High School Brenda Montgomery could not stop beaming.
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Students and staff joined forces to organise a concert for her called Splendour with the Brenda, to celebrate the end of her teaching career as she is retiring this year.
"I think we can all agree, anyone that's had Monty, she's one of the best teachers out there," Year 10 student Jackson Myers said during the concert.
In response Ms Montgomery said she was overwhelmed and said: "I'm not a teary type, but I'm about to".
Aside from a concert featuring the musical talents of many of the students she had taught, students and staff wore special t-shirts on the day printed with the name of the concert and had special buttons made with some of her famous catchphrases.
For the concert's finale, her Year 11 class performed the song Hey Jude by The Beatles, but rewrote all the lyrics and to change the song to "Hey Monty".
Ms Montgomery has been teaching for over 40 years, began working at Bega High in 2002 and was the year adviser for this year's graduating Year 12 class.
"I've had a wonderful time here," the 69-year-old said.
"I love the school, I love the kids, I love the families.
"I will miss it, but have got to get on to the next part of my life."
She will not be leaving the area as she loves living in Bega - saying "they can take me out in a box" - but plans on travelling around Australia, going to see Western Australia and the Great Barrier Reef.
When asked for some advice to pass on to the students, she said "excellence is not being the best, excellence is doing your best".
Albert McKnight
Journalist at Bega District News.
Journalist at Bega District News.
