Many of you in Ararat might know me from my time at the Council, or perhaps you’ve seen me around town at a cricket match or footy game. Whatever the case, I’m Henry Gunstone, and I’ve been lucky enough to call this vibrant community home for most of my life. Today, I wanted to share some stories about the experiences that have shaped me, the importance of community, and the enduring joys of sport.

From Playground to Playing Field

My earliest memories are filled with the sights and sounds of Ararat. Whether it was kicking a footy around with mates in Alexandra Gardens or honing my cricket skills at the local oval, there was always a sense of belonging in these shared spaces. Sport wasn’t just about competition for me; it was about teamwork, pushing myself, and the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team. These early experiences instilled in me a lifelong love of sport and a deep appreciation for the positive impact it can have on individuals and communities.

Taking the Field: A Football and Cricket Journey

As I grew older, my passion for sport translated into playing opportunities. I was fortunate enough to represent both Ararat and South Melbourne (now Melbourne Football Club) in Australian Rules Football. Playing in the VFL (Victorian Football League) was a dream come true, demanding discipline, focus, and the ability to perform under pressure. These skills, I believe, served me well both on and off the field throughout my life.

Cricket was another passion. Playing for the prestigious Richmond Cricket Club was a challenging yet rewarding experience. Cricket is a strategic game, requiring patience, planning, and the ability to adapt to different situations. These are valuable lessons that I carried over into my professional career as well.

Beyond the Scoreboard: The Value of Community

While sport played a significant role in my life, it was never the sole focus. Ararat has always been a close-knit community, and I’ve always felt a strong sense of responsibility to give back. This led me to a fulfilling career at the Ararat Rural City Council, where I served for 36 years.

During my time at the Council, I wore many hats – Municipal Recreation Officer, Community Services Coordinator, and finally, International Relations Officer. Each role allowed me to connect with different parts of the community, understand their needs, and work towards creating a better Ararat for all.

Building Bridges: The Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre

One of the highlights of my career was being instrumental in establishing the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre. Ararat has a rich Chinese history, and the Centre serves as a vital space to preserve and celebrate this heritage. It was incredibly rewarding to see this project come to fruition and foster cultural understanding within our community.

Another significant achievement was forging a sister city relationship between Ararat and Tai Shan City in China. This connection opened doors for cultural exchange, business opportunities, and a chance to build friendships across borders.

Retirement Reflections: A Legacy of Service

Looking back, I’m immensely proud of the contributions I’ve been able to make to Ararat. Whether it was on the sporting field, at the Council, or simply connecting with people as a resident, I’ve always strived to leave a positive impact.

The most valuable lessons I’ve learned throughout my journey are the importance of community, the power of collaboration, and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship. These values have guided me in my personal and professional life, and I hope they continue to inspire others within our community.

The Future of Ararat: A Community United

Ararat is a special place, and its future is bright. We have a strong sense of community, a rich history, and a vibrant spirit. As we move forward, I encourage everyone to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, to celebrate our diversity, and to work together to make Ararat an even more exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.

This blog post is just a glimpse into my experiences. There are countless other stories to be told, and I’m excited to see the new chapters that unfold in the life of our remarkable community.