End of an Era: Junee Celebrates Reverend Hilliard’s Ministry

JUNEE’S St Luke’s Anglican Church has bid a heartfelt farewell to Reverend David Hilliard, who officially retired over the winter.

Parishioners, friends, and community members gathered at St Luke’s on Sunday, July 27, to celebrate David’s ministry and honour his extraordinary contribution to the wider Junee community.

For the past four years, Reverend Hilliard has been more than a parish leader, he has been a source of comfort, kindness, and support for countless locals in need.

Reverend David Hilliard | Photo: Supplied

His ministry stretched far beyond Sunday services, extending into the corridors of the Junee Multipurpose Service, the quiet rooms of Cooinda Court, and the lives of residents and families across the district.

Rectors’ Warden Adrian Eisenhauer led the tributes, commending Reverend Hilliard’s ministry as one that reached well beyond the pulpit.

“His ability to minister to our older residents was evident in their response to him,” Adrian said.

July’s send-off was filled with warmth, gratitude, and reflection on a career that touched countless lives.

In recognition of his service, Reverend Hilliard was also presented with a certificate of appreciation by Junee RSL Sub-branch President Gregory Zakharoff, acknowledging his pastoral care and ongoing support of ex-service personnel and the broader Junee community.

Junee RSL Sub-branch President Gregory Zakharoff (left) with Reverend David Hilliard | Photo: Supplied

Both Reverend Hilliard and his wife, Sus, have woven themselves into the fabric of Junee life.

Beyond the parish, they have been actively involved with groups including the Junee RSL and Rotary, with Reverend Hilliard playing a significant role in Anzac Day and Remembrance Day commemorations across the district — his presence a comforting constant for locals and veterans alike.

Although Reverend Hilliard is stepping back from active ministry, he and Sus won’t be going far — they’ve chosen to stay in Junee, a town they now proudly call home.

With strong friendships forged over the years, their retirement will be spent among the community they have served so faithfully.

As St Luke’s and the wider district wish them well, Reverend Hilliard’s legacy will live on in the lives he has touched, the friendships he has nurtured, and the community he has helped strengthen.

Junee is richer for his time here and grateful to still call him one of our own.