It was a very fortunate day for Lithgow when Phil Duncan took his wife Rose on a tour of his old high school almost 20 years ago.
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The school patron visited again on Tuesday, March 5, for a tour and announced he would be gifting the school $100,000.
School principal Ann Caro said she would work with the school's leadership team, students and teachers, to come up with the best possible use for the funds.
"We are overwhelmed, it is such a wonderful thing," she said.
Ms Caro said Mr Duncan's long term support of the school had included supporting its robotics programs, an annual scholarship and last year's VIVO program, among other donations.
On visiting the school for the first time almost two decades ago, Mrs Duncan suggested Mr Duncan, who had achieved a high level of success in the insurance industry, should find a way to give back to his old high school.
And so the Phil Duncan Scholarship was born. First awarded in 2002, it recognises students who are not necessarily the top of the academic pool, but show a good work ethic and strive to succeed.
"I was never Dux," he said.
"I enjoyed school, but I was always better at sport than academics."
After leaving school in 1963, work opportunities took Mr Duncan into the banking industry before he took the opportunities offered in the world of insurance.
He enjoyed a very successful career with Lloyd's of London and now spends much of his time travelling and playing golf.
"I'm now in a position to help people, and help the school. I thought it was time to give back," Mr Duncan said.
"I believe Lithgow High School punches well above its weight. I'm very proud of it, actually.
"It's all because of the efforts of the teachers and pupils - they are very serious about success.
"I find you receive much more satisfaction from giving than receiving, that's always the case."
Mr Duncan said he planned to continue his active involvement in the school, planning another visit later in the year.
Students took the opportunity to give Mr Duncan a tour through the grounds and the home of the robotics program which he sponsors during his visit.