‘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 !”
“ 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
“ 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
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.
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 ‘
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.
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 .
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.
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.
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.
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.
At 94 years old, Denise Houlihan still lives alone on her Casterton farm—despite losing her sight. Her fierce independence is matched only by her deep gratitude for the local community and family who support her way of life.
One of eight children, Denise grew up during the Great Depression, moving from town to town as her father sought work. She eventually completed her schooling in Melbourne before returning home at 16 to become a junior teacher—kickstarting a lifelong passion for education.
At 22, she married Frank and together they took up the last soldier settlement in Casterton. After 45 years of marriage, Denise was widowed and was struggling, that was until she signed up to volunteer with the VISE program, teaching in remote outback schools for six months each year from age 70 to 80.
Her story spans nearly a century of resilience, adventure, and service—from the classroom to the red dust of the Outback. Tune in to hear how Denise continues to inspire others to embrace life fully—and maybe even plan a visit to Australia’s heartland.
Casterton and District Residents were for 31 years accustomed to our “cycling cop “as Leading Senior Constable Shane Kelly rode his pushbike to and from his shift.
An answered call of 36.5 years of service and duty by a Muntham born and bred policeman until enforced retirement due to ill health in 2024.
This latest podcast sheds light on the Kelly 120 year “Kildare” Muntham history, Shane’s interests, experiences learned and shared from farm days and the challenging diversity of the Police Force, city life and the varied dynamics of human nature.
Kane and Lois’ insightful questioning unearths Shane’s frank and direct, yet generous unpacking not only of his career but other layers including the unwavering support of wife Suzanne and his three children. Support so vital and never taken for granted by him as he walked the tricky beat of a policeman in his home town.
Retired Leading Senior Constable Kelly despite the traumas faced by those on the force believes in the value of role models and positive community connections. Thisfuels his willingness to still give as best he can to helping wherever he can volunteering, enjoying membership with the Vice Regal Band and the love of farming.
The Kelly affinity and Casterton Connection is bound to remain strong as in Shane’s opinion our town and wider district is “God’s Own Country… A paradise I wouldn’t want to leave.”
Growing up in Casterton, Paul Cottier enjoyed the freedom of a small-town childhood, surrounded by mates and steeped in music. His passion was sparked not just by his father, a gifted musician, but also by the rich legacy of the Casterton Vice Regal Band—an enduring symbol of musical pride in the region.
Together with his brother, Paul carried that passion into the Royal Australian Navy Band. As a bugler, he played at iconic events—from the visit of Pope John Paul II to the haunting stillness of the Gallipoli Dawn Service. He performed alongside greats like James Morrison at Generations in Jazz, and served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and East Timor.
Trained in conducting and arrangement, Paul rose through the ranks to become Director of Music Navy, finishing his distinguished career as a Commander.
Tune in to hear his incredible story of service, sound, and resilience—shaped by heritage, community, and the enduring power of music.
Peter Chantler’s childhood with his family was mobile as they travelled to numerous communities across the country with his father’s banking employment. Casterton embedded strong connections in Pete’s teenage years resulting in him to lay a lifetime base. His family’s nomadic early years however had sown a seed of adventure that became his passion and as listeners are treated to his re-treking of such amazing world- wide experiences, highlights, and at times lucky misadventures they cross different continents.
Peter’s ethos of accepting any opportunity and work skill challenge that opened up to him; along with his willingness to share it, has created a thrilling episode that takes listeners on an expedition. One that not only highlights borders, experiences, interesting characters but also an era of travel without social media and modern communications. An era of exploration grasped with great enthusiasm by a true explorer who treasures his life of adventure and equally so his Casterton Connection. “ His Base” first laid in those teenage years.
Join us for a heartwarming journey through time as Arnold and Irene Hornibrook share captivating stories from their decades in Casterton. From the early days of local businesses to the founding of the Lions Club and the Casterton Motor Enthusiasts Club, this episode is rich with community spirit and personal history.
Arnie, who grew up in Strathdownie, first laid eyes on Irene—then just 15—at a local event. Five years later, they married, and today they celebrate an incredible 70 years together. Their secret? Working side by side and always enjoying each other’s company.
Hear how Irene’s clerical training with the nuns at the Casterton convent helped support Arnie’s many ventures—shoe repairer, salesman, upholsterer, carpet cleaner, second-hand furniture dealer, and even a teardrop caravan builder.
For the Hornibrooks, Casterton isn’t just home—it’s the friendliest, safest town in the world. Don’t miss this inspiring episode full of love, legacy, and local pride.
Leaving Casterton and travelling 18 kilometres along the Casterton–Naracoorte Road, you’ll pass through Red Cap Creek. Redcap was the name of one of the members of the first Indigenous cricket team, which travelled to England in 1868. That pioneering team embraced the opportunity with courage and determination, embodying the belief that life can offer:
“Wings to show you what you can become,
Roots to remind you where you are from.”
In this edition of Casterton Connections, interviewer Lois Lowe shares a genuine, insightful, and honest conversation built on trust and rapport with Shane Gill, who was born in Redcap.
Born in 1961, Shane is the sixth child of Jack and Verna (Bobbie) Gill. He fondly recalls a simple childhood filled with the antics and adventures shared with his siblings, extended family, and the neighbouring McArlein, Shannon, Foster, and Crossley clans.
Like many others at the time, Shane left home in 1972 at the age of eleven to attend boarding school. Over the next eighteen years, his “wings” carried him through a wide range of experiences, people, self-discovery, and even to meeting his wife, Heather. Yet, his connection to his “roots” remained deeply embedded in his sense of home.
For the past thirty-five years, the Casterton district has been fortunate to have Shane and his family return to where it all began. While he is well-known in the community in many ways, listeners will get a deeper glimpse into the chameleon-like nature of this much-loved local. Shane openly embraces his slightly eccentric and eclectic personality.
Like sands sifting through an hourglass, this interview reveals the many grains that colour Shane’s days—family, nursing, community, travel, and music. It resonates with honesty, courage, humour, and a compassionate, non-judgemental approach to life and people.
So sit back and enjoy the banter, the warmth, and the clear friendship between Lois and Shane, as she explores the layers of a man who walks to the beat of his own drum, while giving so much to so many.
A local whose life experiences have spread his wings, yet who has always stayed true to the values and respect rooted in where he came from. A heartfelt connection to place and people that will always feel like “home.”
"I was lucky to be a child growing up in Casterton in the best era! A simple time where I felt safe, loved and happy."
Be transported back in time as spritely 92 year old Betty Collins whose colourful recollections and love of conversation creates an informative and captivating picture of Casterton in times gone by.
Youngest of twelve, Mother of four, grandmother of 11 and great grandmother of 31 Betty reminisces of her walking to school rain, hail or snow with brown paper in her shoes to help keep her feet warm.
Carefree days rabbiting with her brothers, being rewarded with little cakes for delivering billy cans of milk to Stewarts bakery.
Like most of her generation Betty poignantly recalls her three brothers heading to War and whilst protected from it now thinks what a worrying time it was for her parents with son sin the Airforce, Light horse and one a Prisoner Of War.
In a world now so reliant on technology Betty's recount of a simple Anzac Letter written by her brother Wally to are turned soldier is heart warming as it created a lifetime of Connection that she holds dear today.
A simple act of kindness in the form of a letter....... an art not often used today.
With humour and clarity Betty, with tongue in cheek, recalls her courting days with husband Des to the movies while being chaperoned by her cousin and once married in 1952 building their home in McEvoy Street one room at a time with no power or running water " bit by bit as we could afford it'.
Travel the years, the everchanging landscape of Henty Street through the eyes and memories of the young Betty: daughter sibling ,classmate, employee, young wife and mother, grandmother, friend and volunteer.
Creating bonds has kept this amazing lady young at heart and quick witted.
A top conversationalist who still walks every day and appreciates the way Casterton and Family enriches her days. Listeners and Casterton in return are in debt to this grand senior citizen, volunteer extraordinaire who states "Casterton will do me. It will see me through"
With gratitude and great pleasure Casterton Connections presents another home grown legend and says Bravo Betty Collins!
"I was lucky to be a child growing up in Casterton in the best era! A simple time where I felt safe, loved and happy."
Be transported back in time as spritely 92 year old Betty Collins whose colourful recollections and love of conversation creates an informative and captivating picture of Casterton in times gone by.
Youngest of twelve, Mother of four, grandmother of 11 and great grandmother of 31 Betty reminisces of her walking to school rain, hail or snow with brown paper in her shoes to help keep her feet warm.
Carefree days rabbiting with her brothers, being rewarded with little cakes for delivering billy cans of milk to Stewarts bakery.
Like most of her generation Betty poignantly recalls her three brothers heading to War and whilst protected from it now thinks what a worrying time it was for her parents with son sin the Airforce, Light horse and one a Prisoner Of War.
In a world now so reliant on technology Betty's recount of a simple Anzac Letter written by her brother Wally to are turned soldier is heart warming as it created a lifetime of Connection that she holds dear today.
A simple act of kindness in the form of a letter....... an art not often used today.
With humour and clarity Betty, with tongue in cheek, recalls her courting days with husband Des to the movies while being chaperoned by her cousin and once married in 1952 building their home in McEvoy Street one room at a time with no power or running water " bit by bit as we could afford it'.
Travel the years, the everchanging landscape of Henty Street through the eyes and memories of the young Betty: daughter sibling ,classmate, employee, young wife and mother, grandmother, friend and volunteer.
Creating bonds has kept this amazing lady young at heart and quick witted.
A top conversationalist who still walks every day and appreciates the way Casterton and Family enriches her days. Listeners and Casterton in return are in debt to this grand senior citizen, volunteer extraordinaire who states "Casterton will do me. It will see me through"
With gratitude and great pleasure Casterton Connections presents another home grown legend and says Bravo Betty Collins!
John and his wife, Jo moved to a bush block near Casterton once they had graduated from teacher's College.
Together they built a mud brick home and established gardens as far as the eye can see, whilst raising 4 sports enthusiastic children and teaching at various schools in the region.
John also managed to both play and coach football and cricket teams throughout his life.
Now retired John spends his time maintaining his garden and bush block and bird watching.
From Casterton to the sporting arenas of two of the most famous and passionate “ Magpie “ football clubs; Collingwood and Port Adelaide this humble and gentle giant treasures the adventures of growing up in Casterton.
He recalls family, lifelong friendships and with honesty and sincerity states that wherever he roams Casterton is his DNA and he enjoys returning for a ‘dose ‘ of connection and always proudly promotes the land and home of the Kelpie………. Casterton.
Son of Kiwi and Doris, brother to four siblings’ father of two daughters Abbey and Courtney and grandfather of Umi.
Russell Johnston’s early years were coloured with the laughter and spirit of adventure of his parents ‘open door ‘ welcome which was shared over soft drink or cordial from the famous Jeffrey’s Cordial and soft drink factory owned by his Dad and ex policeman Jack Phillips.
From early days young Russell enjoyed deliveries with his Dad and learned the art of humour and easy conversation. This skill so evident in his interview.
With a resume star studded with success in sporting domains the talented basketballer and footballer has co teamed with many greats the likes of John Cahill {coach} Craig Bradley, Gavin Wanganeen and Peter Daicos but still lists his days with the Saints, Dunrobin- Dergholm, Casterton, Sandford and his lifelong friends just as valued and cherished.
A fascinating, highly recommended connection interview which will have you smiling as you hear of Russell’s recollections, patchwork of experiences, love of travel , hitchhiking willingness to tackle and take up any opportunity life offers while staying true to his grounded “ Country Boy “ roots.