TRANSCRIPT:
I recently had the privilege of attending an event celebrating 40 years of Kestrel Aviation, a local family-owned company that has grown into a global leader in aerial firefighting and emergency response. At the centre of Kestrel’s story are Ray and Eleanor Cronin. Ray’s innovation has transformed how we fight fires, introducing capabilities that have changed how emergency services operate. Eleanor’s leadership has steered Kestrel with heart, purpose and deep community values. Their pioneering firebombing technology was developed at their Mangalore base, and behind every aircraft is a team of pilots, engineers, refuellers and admin staff, all locals living in our community.
Kestrel’s impact extends far beyond the runway. Whether it is fires, floods or remote rescues, when disaster strikes they are among the first in the sky. From our farm we often hear the rotors overhead and step outside. Is it the Black Hawk, the Super Puma, maybe the LongRanger? My children stare up in awe, and it is in those moments that it is not just about aircraft, it is knowing that help is on the way.
This month I also spent time at the Euroa cattle sale alongside someone many farmers quietly rely on, Ivan Lister. Ivan is one of the few dedicated mental health advocates in our region, and he does not make a fuss. He is there listening and helping when people need it most. At a time when drought and financial pressures hang heavily, that quiet support means everything.
That same community spirit was alive at the Molyullah fish and chip night. Dams remain empty and feed prices are worrying, but those nights are not about that.