I grew up post-WWII in country Northern Victoria. I was second of four kids and the sole
male. These were austere days particularly being 20km from town. Apart from home life, Church on Sunday and school during the week, that was the sum total of our social life. It was always predestined that I would return to farm life, which I did. Getting my driving licence enabled me to have a measure of independence and freedom.
Having knowledge of the gospel and observing a life ignorance of the gospel, at the age of 19 I chose to become a Christian. One of my favourite old hymns from that era was and still is “I know not why Gods wondrous grace to me he has made known, nor why unworthy as I am He has made me for his own. “I am still amazed at His grace and know I will never fully understand it.
I grew up in a community which valued community service. What I learned was that the quality of life was enhanced by the efforts of the community. This is true whether it relates to the health services to the district, various industry activities, education or the Christian community. People, who will give of time, skill and energy to represent the local cause, are pivotal in the wellbeing of the local population.
At this stage of my life it is my considered opinion that I have the time and life experience to be of encouragement to those who have had their freedom taken from them for their actions and I can have a positive effect on their lives. This was my motivation as a funeral director as well. When the offender statistics become available, I see the huge need that exists to minister to these guys. A need not only from the gospel aspect but with differing levels of literacy, depression that need addressing. I see myself as part of a team and the encouragement in the work is to see a guy released and able to live a life that is healthier and with a purpose, never to return to prison.