James has competed in most states in the national competitions as well as being host Town Crier in 2002 National Championship held in Strathbogie Shire. James is a Pastor and Chaplain in the Uniting Church and regularly preaches across the North of Victoria. The Coordinator of the Victorian Council of Churches Emergency Chaplin’s for the Strathbogie Shire. James is also the Chaplain of the AHGATC and officiates at appropriate occasion across Australia. By profession is a Locksmith having learnt his skills from his father and extended family, using these skills he is the only Town Crier who has made his own bell and Community Development Advocate/Consultant in the Disability sector.
James has held the position as Town Crier for the Shire of Strathbogie for the last twenty four years. Welcoming Visitors to the Shire, Proceeding Parades, Promoting Events, from Town Promotion to National Event you will always find James out working with his Bell, as part of many activities throughout the Shire.
Having attended two World Championships for Town Criers, his Livery (Red) is themed on “Major Mitchell” who surveyed the area as part of “Operation Phoenix” in the 1830’s, it was John MacArthur to recommend that Elisa Furlong to bring her Saxony Sheep to the area, which grew into the community of Strathbogie Shire we know today. The Shire is renowned for the high quality Merino wool that comes from this Shire as well as the many stud lamb operations. Being good for Sheep is also good for horses and most of the major racing trainers are now establish in the Shire emphasized by the birth of “Black Caviar” in the Shire
James is an active Rotarian who has made malty-skilling an Art-Form, A member of the Shire of Strathbogie’s Disability Advisory Group, and North-Eastern Representative of a number State Disability Reference Groups. Qualified in Steam, both as Driver and Fireman, is in high demand in the Steam Restoration Industry and is heavenly involved in the preservation of the skills and equipment. James enjoys nothing better than retreating into his shed, a competent wood worker, trained in fitting and machining, and active in Model Engineering the list of creations and projects is too large to mention here. Served for many years as an Ambulance Officer in Northern Territory, Queensland and Victoria, a Private Pilot and Community Development Consultant. James has and is making a significant contribution to the community.