What is something people don’t know about you? There are probably a few things that people don’t know about me, here are just a few. My mode of transport to primary school was in a horse and cart with my brother, two sisters and a couple of cousins. Spent 6 years on the Shepparton Shire Council. Judged sheep and cattle all around Australia and NZ. Bought my first farm in 1958. Sold cattle and/or sheep genetics to all Australian States plus New Zealand, Indonesia, China, New Caledonia, USA, and Kazakhstan. On one trip back from America, I sat next to Malcolm Fraser (former PM).
What was your most memorable moment? Winning cattle championships at Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, and Brisbane. Winning all 5 classes in the beef carcase competition at the Royal Melbourne Show in 1978, including the Grand Champion carcase.
Why? This record had never been achieved prior and this record still stands today.
What is your favourite holiday spot in Australia? Difficult to pick just one as there are so many fantastic locations. However, one of the most memorable was with my wife Debra and our two daughters, Elizabeth and Georgia, we hired an RV and travelled to central Australia – 6,000 km in 10 days.
What do you love most about the Yarra Ranges? I thoroughly enjoy driving through the magnificent forests admiring and photographing the majestic trees and any wildlife that pops out. The rich soil in various locations is mouth-watering.
What event, past, present, or future, would you like to witness? A George Strait concert.
What is your favourite book? I do not read friction (fiction) books. I have many favourites books but Call of the Reed Warbler, by Charles Massy would have to be one of the best and thoroughly recommend. Many of those mentioned in this book I know and had visited their properties. Jackaroo, by Michael Thornton. An interesting book, many of Michael’s experiences paralleled that of mine, especially the wool classing and Michael worked for Malcolm Fraser.
Which four guests, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party? Charles Massy, Donald Trump. Dr Judy Mikovits, Dr Charlie Ward, Dr Elaine Ingham and Dr Arden Andersen.
What is your favourite musician? George Strait, Oakridge Boys, Alabama.
What are some of your hobbies? Lawn Bowls, breeding sheep/cattle, growing Salvia, helping others achieve their farming aims.
What does an ideal weekend look like for you? Playing Lawn Bowls at Chirnside Park Country Club.
