Colleagues of the popular Detective Chief Inspector, as well as family members, assembled at the precinct on Thursday, July 23, to bid him a fond farewell after more than three decades in the job.

But, it was the words of long-time co-worker Chief Inspector Guy Guiana APM, which summed up the "new retiree" best.

"Tim will be greatly missed at the Hunter Valley Police District command," he said.

"I have worked with him since 2006 and consider it an honour to call him a friend and colleague.

"He has always been the consummate professional who represented the NSW Police Force with the highest ethical standards.

"I, along with everyone else, wish him well in his retirement."

Detective Chief Inspector Seymour joined the NSW Police Force in 1987.

He served at Mudgee, Muswellbrook and Maitland in general duties and criminal investigation, including stock/rural crime.

He's been a commissioned officer since 2002, performing the role of crime manager for the majority of that time.

"Tim's dedication to duty was recognised numerous times throughout his career, being awarded a Commissioner's Commendation, Commander's Commendations, Commissioner of Police Unit Citations, NSW Premier Emergency Award, National Medal, NSW Police Medal and National Police Service Medal," Chief Inspector Guiana said.

"In addition to this, he's also served as a reservist in the RAAF for many years including deployments overseas to the Sudan and Afghanistan.

"Tim continues to be active in the Muswellbrook community and is taking an active role in the RSL sub-Branch."

As for the man of the moment, he confessed he was looking forward to the next chapter of his life.

"There's plenty for me to do," Detective Chief Inspector Seymour said.

"I will continue my work with the Muswellbrook RSL sub-Branch and District Council of RSL sub-Branches.

"I'll also plan the Anzac Days and liaise with the veterans to try and further the great work Greg Cole and the boys have done up there.

"I can now look after the grandkids, build a house and keep my wife (Kristen) to the manner in which she's been accustomed, too.

"However, I'll admit, it's a melancholy day for me - and quite sad after 32-and-a-half years."

Detective Chief Inspector Seymour said he'd been proud to "help people" in the community.

"I think that's the quality of nearly all cops," he explained.

"They want to get in there and assist those who need it most.

"Unfortunately, sometimes, you're dealing with people in not good circumstances or helping them through a bad time.

"And, if you can make a difference, it's rewarding.

"On top of that, working with just a wonderful group of men and women has been fantastic.

"They are a terrific crew.

"I'm going to miss them every day.

"It's the camaraderie of working with great people, the interaction each day, that personal one-on-one conversation with them.

"That's probably the main thing I'll miss [at work]."

Detective Chief Inspector Seymour acknowledged there had been a plethora of highlights during his career.

"There's too many to mention," he said.

"But, working in such a good place like the Hunter Valley, and with good people, is right up there.

"While we've had murders and investigations, sadly, I try to focus on the positives."