SHE was known as the Ghostbuster because of her backpack vacuum cleaner.

Now, after 35 years of working as the cleaner at Bilambil Public School, Maisie Burger has decided to put down the vacuum cleaner and call it a day.

Over her career the 70-year-old Bilambil resident has seen more changes than most at the school.

"We only had the preschool when I first started," Ms Burger said.

"Then all of a sudden we had all these demountables, then they said they were going to build us a new school, which was great."

Students past and present all know Ms Burger.

"Whenever they saw me coming they'd sit down 'cause I'd go crook on them," she said.

"They all know me here. I'll always miss the kids."

Yesterday the school organised a surprise farewell party for Ms Burger.

"They got me a beautiful big case so I'm going to have to go on holiday," she said.

"I like New Zealand, but I wouldn't go there."

Principal Carole Bool said Ms Burger's presence would be missed.

"She's had an amazing commitment to the school and she treats the school like her home," Ms Bool said.

"Whenever I met older pupils who are no longer here, the first question they ask is if Maisie is still here. In today's society you hardly ever find such loyalty and commitment."

Ms Burger would also keep an eye on the staff, including the principal.

"She'll kick me out if it's late," Ms Bool said.

"She'll say, 'it's time for you to go home'."

Ms Bool invited Ms Burger to help at the tuckshop.

"I'm still thinking about it, but I will try," Ms Burger said.