When I first asked Shane Sali about his future, he was a first term City of Greater Shepparton Mayor.
He loved his job and, it seemed, the job loved him. I asked the question and held my breath for the answer; I didn’t know what I wanted it to be.
As mayor, for more than four years, Shane was on call and available to the people of Greater Shepparton; there were no days off.
This was his choice, his decision.
He was passionate and determined to work hard. He told me about a call he received one Christmas Day.
A gentleman, out for a walk, had noticed a diseased fruit tree; so he called the mayor, who called the appropriate people, and the tree was treated on Boxing Day.
It is almost a century since the Sali family arrived in Shepparton and it is apparent that Shane was raised with some important values – show respect, be loyal, work hard and give back.
His family had led the way. He says he grew up in the mall, where the family’s fashion stores were (and still are) located.
But he was also aware of, and associated with, his uncles’ agriculture and transport businesses.
About this time, in the current interview, he completely took over, as he has done in the past; but I was noticing some changes.
I asked about his three-year stint with Regional Cities Victoria – the first as deputy chair, the next two as chair.
This alliance is comprised of the local governments of Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Horsham, Latrobe, Mildura, Shepparton, Wangaratta, Warrnambool and Wodonga; when he was chair, Shane visited every area involved — to learn and to understand.
After this year’s fires, he promptly organised 80 fruit bins to be filled and delivered to Strathbogie Shire.
I have absolutely no doubt about Shane’s love for this region and it seems his interests were widening; his awareness growing.
I think we have all seen the figures — 25 per cent of the population lives in regional and rural Victoria but only 12 per cent of the funds have been spent on us.
We’ve all suffered because 13 per cent of our rightful spend is buried in Melbourne’s ‘underground’.
The man to whom I was listening, is a politician — and he’s ready.
Not yet 40 years of age, he is committed to outcomes, and he’ll be a strong voice for the country regions.
For more than 1500 days as mayor, he’s been working hard and now has a deep understanding of our community and about the people of country Victoria.
As I’ve written previously, Shane Sali is the real deal. He’ll take the Spring St steps in his lengthy stride.
But he will always, always, call Shepparton home.
Notes
Thank you. I have some emails, one of which has come from Japan; I’ll share them with you when I can.
Doing some reading, I came across the word/title docent.
Apparently it means people who lead tours, or explain exhibits, at a museum or art gallery; at least, in the United States it does.
As some of our volunteers read this column, I thought you might be interested. Well done, all docents.
Pickle had his first birthday last week. I refrained from singing to him; if he understands that he is now an adult cat, he mightn’t play with me anymore.
Let’s enjoy the beautiful weather – if, indeed, it is still beautiful when you read this.
Take care and may it be easy, my friends.
Marnie
Email: towntalk@sheppnews.com.au
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