By Olivia Condous
Terry Manning is a Melton resident who has connections to many of the local groups that connect the community. He has previously served as president of the Melton RSL Sub-Branch and the Melton Bushwalkers club. Now, at the age of 84, he still partakes in bush walks through the Melton area with the club. Terry spoke to reporter Olivia Condous about his connection to Melton and his love of bushwalking.
What’s your connection to Melton?
We moved to Melton in 1980 because it was a peaceful quiet town and land prices were reasonable.
What do you like about where you live?
Although population explosion is diminishing the quality of life, Melton Council has provided
us with many walking and cycling tracks, and is maintaining and developing our parks and gardens. They are also providing facilities to suit all levels of interest. So on balance, we still have a great place to live.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would not change where I live, but I would like for more people to respect our environment and stop dropping litter everywhere and also dumping rubbish along our beautiful creeks.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
Being a lover of nature, I enjoy spending time in the Melton Botanic Garden, walking our creek tracks and bushwalking in the many local reserves or bush areas around Melton. Having a coffee in one of Melton’s shopping centres is also most enjoyable.
How did you get involved with Melton Bushwalkers?
In 1988 at age 50, whilst serving in the RAAF and having completed two terms as president of the Melton Sub Branch of the RSL, I went with a walking group that had just been set up to promote fitness. A formal committee was to be set up, and I was enjoying the walks, so I took on the president position. We soon converted to a bushwalking club, and I stepped down as president in 2018, at the age of 80. I still continue to lead some of the club walks.
What’s your favourite thing about bushwalking?
It’s one of the best ways to keep and stay fit.
What is the best part about being involved in the club?
It improves your social life; you make many new friends; you get to see so much new and varied scenery; and it’s a very enjoyable way to spend a day out. I highly recommend it.
