LIAM’S AWARD

Liam Durkin graduated from Assumption in 2012. From a renowned potato growing family near Trafalgar, he was always keen on journalism. New editor of a leading Gippsland paper and a brilliant writer he has just won the SEN radio Country Racing Victoria media award for his Gippsland racing coverage. Liam covers all sport in the region and is very popular with a legion of readers. He and his brother James (also ex ACK) play football and cricket in the region. Liam loves the newspaper game and believes regional paper are an important part of country life. He reads Review stories regularly.
***
INSPIRING
Just as Neale Daniher inspired a nation, NRL star Jai Arrow may be destined for a similar impact. Recently diagnosed also with dreaded MND and only 30, his Sydney club has ensured he takes the field as a token “sub” for the final two games so he can reach the century milestone. Jai and his family face a heartbreaking battle as did Neale and family. One day the terrible affliction will be beaten with Neale’s incredible sacrifice and Jai Arrow’s to follow having led the fight.
MEN OF THE MEDIA
Former ACK stars David King and Ben Dixon have forged fine media careers. David, who grew up on a farm near Mt Piper, is a highly regarded AFL commentator on Fox Footy and columnist in the Herald Sun. He played in Assumption’s 1989 dual title winning sides and proceeded to clock up 198 games for North Melbourne.
Ben Dixon is a regular commentator on Fox and is also well regarded. After staring for ACK in football and cricket he ended up at Hawthorn where he played 114 games.
David and Ben are following in the wake of other “boys” in Shane Crawford and Bill Brownless, also making a sports media career is Gareth Hall in sports radio. A good footballer at ACK he was also a fearsome fast bowler who often terrorised batmen. Earlier on, Peter Keenan was a popular media man from the 1970’s for nearly four decades.
SAD OCCASION
Willowmavin’s Phil and Willie Kenyon and their family gathered from far and wide recently in the mountain country in North-East Victoria to farewell a beloved daughter who passed to the greater life recently. It was a sad but uplifting occasion for the large family. A great crew the Kenyon family, real fair dinkum Aussies and lovers of adventure and times particularly in the Northern Territory where they are well known and highly regarded.
***
JOHN MULLER
It was nice to briefly encounter John Muller the other day. He and his wife and family are well remembered for their predominantly lawn mower business opposite the Red Lion in Sydney St. It was one of the earlier outlets that gave fine and friendly service to local and area people.
YOUNG GUN
Broadford youngster Harrison Wood, only 13, has I believe a fine future in cricket. He has already played well above his age level and has just been chosen for rep squads in Melbourne in January. A fine young bat and wicket keeper he is also a handy pace bowler who recently bowled at over 100 km/h in the nets.
***
THE “GENERAL”
Strath Creek’s combined bistro, store and post office is kicking goals. Opened only a couple of years ago it is in a fine setting in the village nestled in the foothills of the spectacular “Valley of a thousand hills”, a haven for artists and photographers. The friendly staff and fine service add to the charm of a unique locality. At weekends in particular it attracts many from near and far afield.


