The couple moved to Gunnedah in 1997 so Mr Dunlop could take up the role of assistant minister for three years, then they moved to Wee Waa for six years.

In 2006, they came back to Gunnedah and Mr Dunlop became the senior minister.

"In 26 years, the [Gunnedah] parish has only had two [senior] ministers," Mr Dunlop said.

"I'm the longest-serving vicar here in the 160-year history of the parish, by two years."

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The couple have raised their family in Gunnedah and one of their daughters even married a local man.

They have been key in starting new ministries and have become involved in the cycling club, touch football competitions, and Carols in the Park, to name a few.

"I've had a few children that I've baptised that I've actually then married and seen kids grow up," Mr Dunlop said.

"It's been a huge privilege to serve here and it's a great community and a fantastic church."

While they will find it hard to say goodbye to the community they love, they said they will be happiest where God leads them.

"It's going to be sad to leave Gunnedah. We've loved the community and the people but we want to be where God wants us to be and we believe this is a great opportunity for the gospel," Mrs Dunlop said.

The Dunlops said they were approached by the Armidale diocese bishop in November and invited to lead a new parish in North Tamworth.

Mr Dunlop said while there were already four Anglican churches in Tamworth, the city continued to grow and there was a "need" for another parish in the area.

They will live on a 20-acre property owned by the diocesan where the church will be built in the future.

The land neighbours the Calrossy Anglican School William Cowper campus and the school's hall will be utilised for services until they have their own building.

Starting a parish from scratch will be a new challenge for the Dunlops, but they say God is with them in this.

"It's definitely a risk and a step of faith but you go out knowing that you're not doing it alone ... we felt this is where Jesus wanted to lead us next," Mr Dunlop said.

"Something I say in my ministry is if God's on your side, you've always got a majority, so you step out in faith knowing those things. You'd never do it on your own ... ministry is about serving Jesus and where he wants you to be".

Mrs Dunlop echoed her husband's words, saying they believed God was "worth sacrificing for" and they "want people to hear about him".

The Dunlops will attend their final service at the Gunnedah church on February 2. A farewell lunch will be held afterwards.