Casterton Connections

An initiative of Hands Up Casterton where a group of enthusiastic locals who have come together to capture, preserve and share stories of people who have a connection to Casterton.

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21 episodes
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English

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August 31 · 1 hr 20 min
Episode 48 - Kari McGrath
Kari McGraths roots are grounded in the soil and farming life of Strathdownie. Along with her three sisters, her childhood, was a vibrant happy one entwined in the local community and the love and respect of the land. Parents Ed and Sharon [ nee Joyce] built a life with their family that always engaged and encouraged them encompassing a wide range of experiencesand life lessons. It is these early family times that Kari treasures and believes epitomizes her foundations of curiosity, learning, resilience, adventure and community. Her mantra to never ‘Tap Out’ of a challenge and to broaden her horizons has resulted in life enhancing experiences which Casterton Connections are excited to present in this latest episode. Graduating as a nurse this 21year old bit the bullet, spread her wings into the unknown heading far from the fertile farming lands of home to Australia’s infamous mining town of Kalgoorlie. Thus began a love of nursing in remote areas which resulted in working for ten years throughout the Northern Territory and Western Australia including time in Esperance, Darwin, Port Headland and nursing with the Royal Flying Doctors. Remote, extreme and clinically challenging nursing has resulted in Kari having a foot in two worlds, a world and understanding foreign to us on the eastern sea board. With fascinating and frank discussion with Casterton Connections’ Lois Lowe Kari generously highlights the fear of the Covid pandemic in the outback areas and shares a compassionate insight into the multi- faceted difficulties that are faced by health professionals, who serve and find the balance of their call, to care while respecting the outback ways and honouringIndigeneous ‘Country’ Kari McGrath has packed much into her 38 years. She has spread her wings, responded ‘ why not ‘ along the way to life changing, emotional opportunities but always remained that Strathdownie girl acknowledging her history, her roots and sense of country. Continue to fly Kari!
July 6 · 1 hr 4 min
Episode 47 - Tracie Kelly
Every person has a story! Casterton Connections Lois Lowe sits to unpack the story of Tracie Kelly. What unfolds is a relaxed banter between the two that becomes a roadmap of experiences as Tracie openly and honestly shares her journey of self- discovery that thirty years ago saw her meet a Muntham born “ Officer and a Gentleman” and hence her discovery of Casterton and District; the place she feels relaxed and happy to call home. Tracie’s journey of self discovery is full of eclectic and somewhat contradictory life shaping factors. From a naïve shy homebody of a child blessed with carefree happy memories, numerous work experiences , the strength to navigate through frightening controlling teenage relationships, the search for new beginnings and adult health challenges have all shaped the contented, resilient woman she is today. Her willingness to say “OK” opened up her world and exposed her to the power and satisfaction of Community Connection in Mildura. Her belief in its power intrinsically led her into Community service as a Police Officer and with her empathy and adventurous spirit to try varied horizons she now continues her service as a Police triple 000 responder. The little , somewhat naïve youngster from Frankston way , has indeed travelled a road of experiences she would have never imagined but saying “OK” and yes to Community she has learned and is living a truly connected life both in Casterton and beyond.
June 1 · 36 min
Episode 46 - Allan ‘Podley’ Upton
Allan Francis Upton (Podley) – 20/08/1938 - 11/07/2026. His story lives on. Small country communities are enriched not only by its history but also through the lives of its iconic characters, their eclectic experiences of life and stories of a bygone era. Casterton Connections’ Gavin Lowe sat down with Allan Upton who in true country nickname style is known around the district as Podley. Together they unpacked Allan’s 88 years, the origin of his inherited nickname and the work ethic and jack of all trades skills learned over a myriad of work occupations. Allan’s willingness to take on any opportunity offered and accept mentoring from other district characters; Clode’s, Tansey’s and JP Kent has enabled him to cherish many relationships and memory making moments including a much valued connection with the Wando Vale Community and the Casterton Racing Club. Having attended the last eighty-one Casterton Cups is a feather in Allan’s cap and one he wears with pride. Many hours of voluntary service became the foundation of one of Podley’s most humbling and treasured moments. Receiving recognition from Racing Victoria and inducted into their Service Award Club a momentous occasion and honour to the man who simply and happily calls Casterton ‘Home’
May 11 · 53 min
Episode 45 - 1972 Casterton Cup: The Royal School/Regal Vista Scandal
Casterton Race Club’s meticulous preparations are in the starting gates ready for the 144th Casterton Cup. Its picturesque setting, historical live hedges , magnificent course where the horses hit the open country and “the Wannon meets the Glenelg”, impeccable facilities and flurry of fashion make it an exciting day for all horse racing followers and community alike. Casterton Connections Lois Lowe and John Matthews wind back time as they present reflections and recollections shared by locals Geoff Mitchell, Michael O’Connell, Allan Upton and Heather Mullen of one of the Clubs unforgettable Cups. One that put Casterton front and centre in the world of horse racing. Whilst often referred to as the “Sport of Kings” the Casterton Cup of 12th of May 1972 is infamous in racing history for one of the sports not so Royal or Regal Stings of deception. The scandal of a ring in horse, the comprehensive planning of such a heist, the ensuing aftermath are all now Casterton Racing Club folklore. Sit back and enjoy our four interviewees who were there. Listen to their accounts cover the experience from administrative, barrier attendee, punter and family trainer connections. A fascinating insight to the 1972 Casterton Cup when everyone there wondered: WHO WAS FIRST PAST THE POST ?
May 5 · 1 hr 25 min
Episode 44 - Muzah Makore
It’s New Year 2009: Imagine standing with your wife and two year old son in Perth Airport with customs officers asking “ Do you have money? Do you know where you are heading to?” and your answer being, “ No but I have seen Casterton on a Map and we have Nursing work Visas .” With the hearts of adventurers willing to tackle the fear of the unknown Muzah , Chiedza Makore with son Rufaro arrived in Australia excited to grasp the opportunity that Muzah states “Could Change Our Life” Travel back with Muzah as he not only shares his story but offers an expose of life precious to him in Zimbabwee. His joyful early years raised by his Grandmother, attending secondary boarding school and choice to train as a nurse and meeting his co- adventurer Chiedza. Listeners will be enthralled to hear of the traditional Marriage proposal / ceremony process , and the many challenges the Makore’s faced simulating in and learning about living in a first World Country. Despite some early subtle forms of racism and misunderstandings in the early years the decision to adventure to Australia has been life changing . Over the past seventeen years Muzah and Chiedza have connected whole heartedly and given much to the Casterton Community. Along with their children Rufaro, Taku and Nakai the Makore family, while always holding Zimbabwee dear are grateful for the life they live in Casterton. Equally so the Casterton Community says Thankyou to the Muzah, Chiedza and family for being brave enough to choose our town to spread their joy and community spirit.
April 6 · 1 hr 7 min
Episode 43 - Barb Holmberg
Life has been full of Déjà vu and full circle moments across Barb Holmberg’s eighty one years. From her earliest years being raised in post WW2 Melbourne Barb demonstrated a spirited joy to engage in all opportunities that came her way. Her vibrance , humour, articulation and recollections shared with co Dunrobin resident Lois Lowe [Craig] capture her sparkle, resilience, courage and devotion as wife , mother and community member. Sit back and envisage bygone times as Barb effortlessly paints pictures through her storytelling. She takes us down Epsom Road Flemington when it was a thriving stock route, 1960’s dance halls Jitterbugging and her pioneering nature moving from city comforts to Dunrobin with husband Wally and first son, baby Philip. With the birth of two other sons Darren and Glen and family connections Barb and Wally made Dunrobin home and for 60 plus years they have made an indelible mark on their community. The Holmberg mark is all around the Casterton District in Wallys Welding Mastery and Barbs legacy of Community spirit. Traits instilled and continued through their family. Despite the devastation and ensuing long rehab years following son Glen’s motorcycle accident, which required her to return to Melbourne, listeners will not only be touched by Barb Holmberg’s recounts of a harrowing time but be uplifted by her warmth, her openness and her spirit and essence of fun. Casterton Connections humbly presents Barb Holmberg’s story, a kaleidoscope of life challenges and the devotion of woman to her family and to her community. A woman proud to say ‘ These Hills are Home”
February 23 · 1 hr 8 min
Episode 42 - Donald ‘Duck’ Jones
Boxings Australian Super Middleweight Champion: Donald “Duck’ Jones; the kid from Coleraine whose smiling demeanor in the ring belies the commitment, power , determination, speed and skill that earned him the title and Champion belt at only his third professional fight in December 2025. In a frank, raw at times, chat with Casterton Connections’ Kane Forbes and Luke Balkin this humble, grateful and quietly spoken Champion courageously packs a punch about his twenty- eight years and his challenges and life blows in and outside the ring. It is often quoted “It takes a Village to rear a Child” and the 8/9 year old Donald was waging his own battles when through the positive foresight and mentoring of a local Police Seargent; a fiery and passionate kid at the crossroads of choices was introduced to Mocka’s Boxing Gym Coleraine. Thus began a journey! With relationships built on respect, tough Love, patience, skill and mentoring from Mocka, his team and the whole Village; the Seed was Sown. Lessons learned, self- belief and discipline were cultivated courageously as Donald’s choices became his Power, his Purpose and Success. Casterton Connections is thrilled to present an insight into this young man’s rise through the amateur boxing ranks and ultimate victory as a Professional Boxer with snippets of commentary and interviews with some of the main players in whom he placed his trust. Ultimately though the inspiration belongs to Donald ‘Duck ‘Jones as he, with no punches pulled, opens up with strength and vulnerability about the disciplines and sacrifices of the boxing world, life losses and adversity that can knock you down but like all Champions pick themselves up, dust themselves off, receive and give back generously to their Village and fight on. Bravo Donald and Team ‘DUCK JONES’.
February 9 · 1 hr 14 min
Episode 41 - Rick Lane
In a self-deprecating, humorously stated assessment Rick Lane sums up his life as a “Long Journey to Maturity “. What a journey it has been thus far! How privileged Casterton Connections are that this, sometimes called, unofficial Mayor of Merino took the time to take Lois Lowe on the backroads, bush tracks, capital cities, National Parks, highways and byways of his 67 years. Rick’s openness to life, his willingness to emerse himself in the freedom and beauty of nature and grasp all experiences that came his way was sown from a young age by family bush adventures. As his imagination and learning blossomed in between the pages of the countless books that nurtured his curiosity so too his thirst to be fully present to every opportunity and everyone and still walk that journey his way. From Merino where family tragedy taught him the value and gratitude of a Village caring for its own to his unbelievable encounters , living rough , seeing Australia via push bike , listeners will be captivated by so much more. True to his mantra Rick Lane leaves no stone unturned in this insightful , fascinating podcast and Casterton Connections encourage him on his continuing ‘Long Journey ‘.
January 26 · 35 min
Episode 40 - Neville Wombwell
The Wombwell Family name is synonymous with Bahgallah and eighty four year old Neville still farms the third generation land which was established by the previous generation brothers. In this episode of Casterton Connections grandson James and son Leigh share time with Neville His story, clear recollections of early years , floods, droughts, Henty Street in days past, the thriving activities at the hub of the Community ‘Bahgallah Hall ‘ passed on with ease and comfortable banter. With respect, three generations of men, acknowledge the role of many in the tough times to persevere, to get through it, and still make Casterton and District “ Home’
January 12 · 1 hr 28 min
Episode 39 - Brian Murrell
An eclectic patchwork of experiences across his 73 years have shaped Brian Murrell’s life and through them all he has always held true to his connection to nature, the bush and waterways. Shaped by his childhood memories of a self sufficient, sustainable upbringing on his parents’ farm Inglewood Noss Road he is comfortable and proud to be considered an Enviromentalist. Brian’s jovial recalling of numerous childhood misdemeanors and lucky escapes with his five siblings highlight a different era as does his early working life at 15, where work-safe practices in the timber industry were a far cry from the stringent processes of today. Joining the army as a teenager Brian despite his excellent marksmanship with a rifle was quickly earmarked for special forces signalling and although posted to Canberra, Watsonia, Puckapunyal and Singleton travelling back to Casterton was paramount. Mick and Kaye Murrell’s “ Copperwood Room”was the place to be at weekends and meeting wife of Vicky has shaped the past 48 years together. Three daughters, running Murrells Milk Bar/ Delicateseen/ Vic Roads Bus Depot and for 27 and half years seeing foot fashion come and go in their shoe store. Tireless Passion however for our natural jewels have earmarked his commitment to the Casterton Community. As a member and indeed Vice President of Friends of the Glenelg 2005-2025 he has been Instrumental in the development and maintenance of our beautiful Ess Lagoon and Junction Walking track where the Glenelg and Wannon Rivers meet. Brian’s wealth of knowledge of the Hummocks, Bailey’s Rocks, Rocklands The Junction ; The Rivers biodiversity and even his fishing tips are wrapped in his belief that ‘Mother Nature Knows Best”
Dec 29, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
Episode 38 - Elizabeth Betinsky
‘Who shall find a Valliant Woman? Who shall find a Woman of Strength? A Pearl of Great Price is She” She is known for Dignity and Strength And she laughs at the Days to Come She speaks with wisdom and acts in kindly ways “………….. Book of Proverbs Casterton Connections humbly present Mrs Bettinsky’s heart wrenching yet warming life journey of survival, resilience, determination, positivity and faith. In a spirit of generosity this woman of substance shares truthfully with interviewer Kane Forbes a childhood so entrenched with love courage and learning despite the horrors of war. Listeners will be carried through a time and cultural as her story unfolds. As immigrants she and husband Stefan contributed with hard work and dreamed of leaving city life. An Age Paper real estate advertisement brought husband Stefan to Casterton who bought their Old Mount Block on spec. Many a home in town has been graced with Mrs B’S curtain making skill and enjoyed her amazing cooking delicacies. Something so intrinsic to her gifts of giving learned from her beloved Mother. From the first time she saw their block, was so warmly and kindly welcomed by the Community Stefan, Elizabeth and their boys could say “ I feel Home”. In fact this calm, peaceful woman of substance states ‘ Casterton Means Everything It was and is My Destiny !”
Dec 15, 2025 · 49 min
Episode 37 - Ian ‘Manny’ Carlin
“ The Lights On the Hill”[Slim Dusty] or “On the Road Again”[ Willie Nelson} could aptly be the sound track of Manny Carlin. The highways and byways have seen him travel all corners of Australia resulting in his induction into The Australian Transport Hall of Fame in 2024 Born Ian, second of five children of well known Wando Vale and Casterton families Jack Carlin and Smith Manny left school at fourteen. His mother’s insistence, intuition and understanding that his life skills and interests laid outside the classroom opened up his world to experiences far and wide. His working life began at the family’s Grain Store and Mart which was in the Old Butter Factory building in Casterton. Deliveries of grain, chaff, groceries and vegetables from Mt Gambier and the district his initiation into driving. His indepth recounting with fellow mechanic Gavin Lowe of his years with legendary truckers Leon Jordan, Jimmy Simkin, Smith boys and Pat Chapman recounts unbelievable hours, road and weather conditions scratches the surface of years of service across all areas of agriculture, stock yards, feed lots and more. Buying his first truck from Boss Leon, Manny’s journeys and livelihood business continued and like all whose hours are spent on the road across our nation he acknowledges wife Jean stating ‘Jeans’ kids Trictia, Cindy and Darren all turned out well. Listeners will travel across our nation and be in awe of the miles, the work ethic and the service that prove this 2024 Australian Transport Hall of Famer is a title truly befitting of Manny Carlin
Dec 1, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
Episode 36 - Karen Stephens
“ I am the person I am today because of Casterton! Casterton means the World to Me” “ Volunteering is the Life Line of Community” Two reflective quotes highlighting the impetus of service which Karen Stephens has lived and breathed in this her Community since making Casterton her home, with husband Owen in 1992. Family is the central cornerstone of Karen’s life and she attributes a great deal of her resilience and persistence to her early years as one of eight with five brothers. Born and bred in Adelaide she recalls the wonderful essence of a big family, the fun and misadventure and having then the delight of children and grandchildren of her own who have enriched her life and the family clan. A kaleidoscope of Karen’s life experiences are empathetically, honestly and bravely shared in the latest Casterton Connections Podcast. With openness, warmth and humour Karen and Lois talk of the personal innocence and taboos and breaking down the barriers of 1970’s /80’s challenge of single parenting Building a new life and moving to Casterton with Owen Life defining and ripple effect of walking with grief every day Mentoring and inspiration of locals including past councilors; forward thinking Community venturers and events Indeed with a rich tapestry of life thus far, a passion for people , a ‘Never say Never’ mindset how fortunate that a South Australian girl was hit by Cupid’s Arrow and settled making Casterton her Home.
Nov 17, 2025 · 41 min
Episode 35 - Gavin Larkins
Gavin Charles Larkins – 13/04/1941 - 29/06/2026. His story lives on. One of the delights for Casterton Connection’s Interview team is the opportunity to unpack the hidden experiences and journey of our treasured community characters. Listeners will be treated to meandering with Kane the pathways of life pre and post “ Warrock Homestead ‘ with Gavin Larkins . Gavin’s return with wife Carol and family approxiametly thirty years ago was indeed a full circle moment for him as he returned to the district of his mother who had been born and bred in Sandford. In a heartfelt conversation Gavin and Kane empathetically share the eclectic experiences , job choices , travel opportunities, patient courting days and endearing love of Carol and the resilience through family pain that have coloured Gavin’s life. Creativity with his hands and a love of design and at times impulsive tinkering evident in his experiences Gavin gratefully continues to live his connection with Casterton believing ‘’You get what you put In ‘
Nov 3, 2025 · 28 min
Episode 34 - Warrock Homestead Mini Series Pt.3
George Robertson’s Foresight in 1843 to survive, farm and be self sufficient could never imagine that throughout the years of custodians Patterson and Larkins that the passion would remain alight. 182 years on Warrock is still a jewel and a Prime Part of Australian Pastoral History as Scott Farquharson and family carry the passion and preservation of not only the land but the inherited Heritage Village that brings Warrock alive to locals and tourists alike in 2025 Casterton Connections Kane Forbes’ walkabout tour and discussion with Scott captures the character, challenges and the essence of the decade long and ongoing journey, to have Warrock Homestead, its 31 buildings gardens and historical working machinery restored and rejuvenated in accordance with the Class 1 Heritage Listing that the grand property holds. Listeners will be transported through time hearing that renowned botanists and gardener William Guilfoyle and Edna Walling graced and implemented their touches on a garden that the Farquharson team are now thrilled to have in pristine condition. In true Robertson self sufficient style even re-milling fallen trees into floor boards for the restored buildings. Be intrigued, inspired as Kane was as Scott gave him his first tour of this gem. Tread the shearing shed board with its chalked autographs of many a local shearer and roustabout; view the antique and treasured horse drawn fire cart; original workshop motors and ‘Bitches Hell” Kennel : Birthplace of the First Kelpie. Investigate the detailed Bureau of Meteorology station 2025, style along with the intricate records spanning the district’s weather from the outset in 1843. Marvel at the Warrock and JS Warner Museum artifacts. History is built one day at a time. Each task is tackled one building at a time creating adventure and challenge which is valued by Scott Farquharson and all those involved. As you take this Casterton Connection Journey, let your mind wander back across the years, hear the sounds of the farm, district celebrations, banter of the homestead staff and children on a squeaky swing. Envisage and emerse yourself in a bygone time and make yourself a promise to visit George’s Gem for he would be well pleased that Warrock, his vision is well alive in 2025.
Oct 20, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Episode 33 - Warrock Homestead Mini Series Pt.2
Casterton Connections Kane Forbes chats and unpacks a few of the recollections, relationships, events and intrigues that envelope the history of Warrock Station with past owner Gavin Larkins. Gavin, wife Carol and children David, Peter, Andrew and Bridget accepted the role of custodians of George Robertsons 1843 homestead purchasing it from the Patterson descendants around 30 years ago. Gavin’s respect for History recounts his efforts to always value the stories and self- sufficient settlement while facing the challenge of its National Trust Heritage Listing. Kane’s meticulous research respectfully shapes the discussions of Easter Sunday Open Days which drew hundreds of eager visitors to see the 30 buildings come alive highlighting a bygone era. Warrock’s fascination is not purely found in its ‘Birthplace of the Kelpie” title but also its Museum, Victoria’s largest free standing Conservatory of it’s time, Film set, and the mystic encounters with past owners George and Mary Robertson which Gavin recalls. The Larkins family handed over custodianship to present owner Scott Farquharson and so Warrock’s history lives on and one ponders did George and Mary Robertson ever envisage such a dynasty would remain .
Oct 6, 2025 · 28 min
Episode 32 - Warrock Homestead Mini Series Pt.1
Casterton’s ‘Birth Place of the Kelpie’ title is entrenched in the history of Warrock Homestead and the Robertson, Patterson, Larkins and Farquharson families. From its earliest days of settlement and self sufficiancy in 1843 to our present day Warrock’s historical journey, aura, development, heritage preservation has intrigued locals and historians alike. Casterton Connections is thrilled over coming weeks to present a mini series of interviews which unpack a little of the characters, facts, lived experiences and stories synonymous with settlement, farming and our Kelpie fame. Local author Adam Robertson’s is honoured to kick off the Warrock series which reflects on his research and conversations with Mrs Jess Flanders that culminated in his book ‘ A Life Built Worth Settling For …. Warrock Station ‘ being published in 2018.
Sep 22, 2025 · 1 hr 38 min
Episode 31 - Chris Hutchins
Casterton Connections is thrilled to bring to the crease lifelong Coleraine Resident Chris Hutchins whose connection to Casterton evolved through a love of cricket and his service for many years as a school bus driver around the district. Chris shares an insight into a childhood with his siblings including a twin brother. A simpler time created many treasured connections and without television a commraderie with all the kids on “The Block” that ignited passion for cricket. One that took him from ‘The Block’; around the district where his reputation and talent grew and on lifetime experiences across nations overseas in the over 60’s.Even playing in Switzerland on Ice! His love of the game and desire to always improve on and off the pitch created personal challenge. With the support of wife Kate and family one he stood by with conviction and still revels in at 71 years. Sit back and enjoy Chris’ laconic story telling, at times larrikan humour and personable banter as co-cricketer and past school bus traveller Kane unpacks a hardworking , grounded people person whose motto “ You are only as Good as Your Next Innings” has and will continue to hold him in good stead.
Sep 8, 2025 · 2 hr 11 min
Episode 30 - Casterton-Sandford Football Netball Club 150 Year Reunion
To mark 150 years of football in Casterton, Casterton Connections in collaboration with the Casterton-Sandford Football Netball Club, brought together generations of players, coaches, committee members, volunteers and supporters for a weekend of celebration. Recorded live across the reunion weekend, this special podcast captures the stories, memories and voices that have shaped the Casterton-Sandford Football Netball Club through the decades. From premiership glories to country rivalries, from the people behind the scenes to those who pulled on the jumper, this episode is a time capsule of community spirit, passion and pride in one of Victoria’s oldest country clubs.
S1 · E29
Aug 25, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Episode 29 - Denise Houlihan: VISE Diaries. A life in the outback
Wando Vale resident Denise Houlihan truly embodies the spirit of Pioneering Women. Along with her husband Frank they worked together to provide and raise their children, promote love of the land and learning. Following Frank’s death Denise’s thirst and willingness to experience new horizons while assisting others was kindled by an advertisement for teachers to join School of the Air through Volunteers for Isolated Student Education {VISE}. A 6 week adventure / commitment to outback Queensland and later on Northern Territory became a 10 year love affair, despite the Cane Toad, pythons, dust and heat. Denise’s cultural awakening and sharing not only with the families but of the essence of the outback, its spectacular vastness and the kaleidoscope of cherished relationships and experiences are captured with humility and respect in her own handwritten diaries. Casterton Connections are thrilled to present a snippet of the 600 entries in Denise’s Diaries which with lyrical descriptions , heartwarming and generosity of spirit transport the listener into the private thoughts and writings entered creatively and diligently by this wonderful lady over the ten years. Vision Australia’s digitalizing of Denise’s Diaries are a testament to Denise Houlihan’s treasure chest of writings. Sit back , close your eyes and walk the journey with Denise as she not only shares her past joys but reminisces with interviewers Kane, Lois and Luke as her Diary treasures are unpacked.

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