Thankyou Brian Codrington

Last week, we honoured and celebrated a man whose fingerprints are all over the story of The Centre Dural. If you’ve ever kicked a ball in our sports hall, joined a mission team, walked through our café, sat in church or turned wood, then you’ve encountered the 34-year legacy of Brian Codrington.

None of us would be here today in the way we are if it weren’t for the groundwork Brian laid. From the humble beginnings of Dural Sport and Leisure Centre to its current iteration as a hub of discipleship, sport community outreach, and international mission.

His work was never just about programs; it was always about people. Whether through Futsal with the Solomon Islands, the Wunan Foundation and Kimberley mission trips, or building up the Dural Warriors, Brian has poured out his life to serve others, cross boundaries, and empower others. Alongside him every step of the way has been Lynne, whose quiet strength and unwavering support have made this ministry partnership possible.

If Brian had his way, we wouldn’t be writing this. He did not want a fuss, preferring to slip out quietly, but the truth is, the number of people who were present at his farewell was a testament to his character, his gifting, and the countless lives he’s impacted. Sometimes honour insists on making recognition even when the humble would rather we didn’t.

In the Parable of the Talents, the master entrusts his three servants with portions of gold; two invest it, and one buries it. To the servants who multiply what they were given, hear these beautiful words:

“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many. Come and share your master’s happiness!”

Brian has lived that parable. He has taken the five talents entrusted to him and invested them wisely. From sports strategy to spiritual counsel, vision casting and a humble presence, he has cultivated an abundant harvest. Not just here in Dural, but across Australia and the Pacific.

We know that Brian would never seek applause. But we would be remiss not to thank you for your service, your vision, your prayers, your sweat, and your faith.

Brian and Lynne, you will be deeply missed, but your legacy is alive and bearing fruit. And the words echo from Heaven to here:

Well done, good and faithful servant.

With love, gratitude and the blessing of the whole church and Centre community