General News
17 September, 2024
Tony McGrane Memorial Scholarship Fund Luncheon
Gilgandra had the privilege to host this year’s Tony McGrane Memorial Scholarship Fund Luncheon, held at the Coo-ee Heritage Centre on Sunday, September 15.
Each year, a luncheon is held in memory of Tony McGrane and to raise funds for the Charles Sturt University (CSU) memorial scholarship in his name.
Caffeinity Coffee and Wine Co catered a three-course meal for the event: a grazing platter and drinks, accompanied by live music performed by Brad Haling, followed by a choice of chicken or beef cheek for lunch, and finally sticky date pudding or tiramisu for dessert.
The late Hon. Anthony McGrane was an influential member of local government in both Gilgandra and Dubbo who went on to represent the seat of Dubbo in the NSW Legislative Assembly as an independent in 1999. Sadly, after a short battle with liver cancer, Mr McGrane died in 2004.
“There are never any positives when we lose someone so good so young, but Tony McGrane will never grow old,” said Geoff Mann, who was the master of ceremonies at the weekend’s luncheon. “His memory is one many of us [in this room] will take with us forever. He created a template for those who wanted to fight for their local communities.
“Wherever you go [in the region], you will see the name McGrane imprinted on roads and parks, because he had such a far-reaching impact on our communities.”
CSU’s Tony McGrane Memorial Scholarship is one such outcome of his legacy. Each year, rural students at CSU are awarded up to $5000 to put towards their studies. So far, most recipients have been nursing students, a much-needed and sought-after profession within regional and rural communities.
Two students received the scholarship this year: Jordi Petty and Latoya Richards, both nursing students at CSU Dubbo Campus.
The guest speaker at the event was the current Inspector General of Water Compliance of Australia, the Hon. Troy Grant. “All the opportunities I’ve had in my life started here in Gilgandra, with the people of Gilgandra, and with Tony McGrane.”
Mr. Grant was transferred to the Gilgandra region straight from the police academy at the age of 19. He served three years as part of the local police force, which he described as “the best three years of my life.”
“I never wanted to be a police officer, but I fell into it. My best friend always wanted to [join the force] and convinced me to apply with him.”
Mr. McGrane was part of the Gilgandra Shire Council while Mr. Grant was stationed in Gilgandra, also serving as the shire president. It was through their respective roles to serve the community that the two got to know each other.
“My family likes to say that I left home a boy and came back [from Gilgandra] a man. That’s not a compliment on me, but a compliment to this town. It set for me an example of not just being the best [person] you could, but being the best you could be for others.”
Tony McGrane was described as “larger than life” by Mr. Grant, who commented on the influence he had in the community. “As [Shire President], he was heavily involved in lobbying the State Government… he was able, for a five-person [police] station, to get another four staff members over 12 months – myself included – through lobbying.
“Beyond that, he was very influential and very community-centric. That was well demonstrated when he became councillor and mayor of Dubbo, and later a state MP.
“We all learnt a lot from him, and I brought some of his teachings with me when I myself became a state member.
“The real strength of Tony,” according to Mr. Grant, “was all about the authentic relationships you can create. That’s how you are able to serve others and serve the community best.”
The Tony McGrane Memorial Scholarship Fund Luncheon was a great success, and the first event of its kind to be held at the refurbished Coo-ee Heritage Centre, according to Doug Batten.
“It was a great honour for Gilgandra to be host to the event, thanks to the support of Bob Berry, Charles Sturt University, Dubbo City and Gilgandra Toyota, and Gilgandra Shire Council,” said Mr. Batten.
The Gilgandra Weekly is a media partner of the Tony McGrane Memorial Scholarship Fund.
