Mr Chaplin grew up in Kingsgrove before moving to Wagga Wagga to pursue a career in teaching. He attended Wagga Wagga Teachers College where he met his future wife, Joan Brown of Young.

The pair married at the Young Anglican Church in January 1957 and went on to have two children, Dianne and David. The following years saw Mr Chaplin work at several schools before becoming deputy principal of Grenfell Public School in the early 70s.

He went on to become principal at Murrumburrah High School, before taking up the position a principal of Young Public School - located at the museum residence – in 1977 until 1982.

Over the next five years the well respected and dedicated principal oversaw several major milestones, the most significant being the relocation to the school’s current Bruce Street premises.

Here he continued to strengthen the school’s reputation and continued to develop the music curriculum with great intensity, as highlighted in an extract from the book, “Young Public School 1861-2011” published by Andrew Rickets for the school’s 150^th anniversary. 

It reads, “When Mr Bob Chaplin became principal in 1977 he was quick to realise teacher Col Roben’s forte was his gentle nature and his wonderful patience. Consequently he was appointed as Remedial teacher, handling the students with learning difficulties. This position also allowed Col to have more time for his musical commitments.”

In 1983 Mr Chaplin transferred to Corrimal Public School north of Wollongong, before taking up his final principal position at East Gosford Public School. 

He retired in his early 60s and spent his time relaxing and doing what he loved best – fishing with his neighbour and brother-in-law on Brisbane waters at Gosford. 

Sadly Mr Chaplin passed away at the Port Macquarie Hospital on October 16 aged 80.

The funeral to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at Innes Gardens Memorial Park Chapel, Port Macquarie on Thursday, October 27 at 2pm. The family welcomes anyone who wishes to attend the service.