Mr Fairfax’s wife Louise wrote on her social media website of “a giant … felled by Parkinson’s” who was the love of her life.

“He loved his family with a great passion – and that includes not only our direct family members, but all the other 'adopted' ones that became extended family members along the way,” she wrote.

In a school newsletter issued on Friday, Grammar principal Stephen Norris shared a tribute written by a close friend of the family, Daniel Muggeridge that, Mr Norris said, “beautifully summarises” the feelings of those close to Mr Fairfax.

With a heavy heart I’m confirming that the search for Bruce Fairfax has been called off. A small group gathered at Duckhole Lake [last week] to say a quiet goodbye.

We sang Amazing Grace and Dona Nobis Pacem. Gerard Manly Hopkins’ poems Pied Beauty and The Windhover were read to honour a man who inspired many and who loved his family and his God – and shared generous love to many besides. After days of search in the warm sun, there was a gentle rain that was said to reflect Bruce’s tears as he said his last farewell. More than a few other tears were shed in response.

The search teams have been amazing, thorough, extensive, committed, and caring. No trace has been found, making closure really hard for the family.  Please join us in praying for them as they struggle with waves of grief over the coming days and weeks and months.

Bruce, you have inspired three decades of learners - even just at LCGS. You believed in all of us and inspired us to be better. Your contribution to the broader community will be felt for years to come. You are loved and honoured by so many, and we carry a part of you in our hearts. To say you are generous does not come close.

You will be missed.