A regal experience1: 2: 3: Childcare worker Jenni Reilly and Oliver meet the Governor at Morrison Ho

By Casey Neill
VICTORIAN Governor David de Kretser last week ran for the hills.
Prof de Kretser and his wife Jan visited Mt Evelyn, Belgrave South and Upwey during a three-day Shire of Yarra Ranges jaunt.
The trip kept Prof de Kretser on track with a promise to visit each Victorian municipality during his five-year term.
“I’m reasonably well-scheduled, I’ve been to about two-thirds,” he said.
Mt Evelyn’s Morrison House was one of the Governor’s first stops on Wednesday 5 August.
He met young mechanics students in their workshop, checked out their childcare centre and visited the men’s shed, which helps retirees continue social activities.
“It’s wonderful to see these men sharing their talents and also interfacing with the community in a very positive and non-threatening environment,” he said.
Birdsland Environmental Education Centre in Belgrave South impressed Prof de Kretser on Friday.
“It’s fabulous,” he said.
Shire of Yarra Ranges environment department manager, Caroline Carvalho, explained the centre’s environment programs aimed at creating a new generation of green crusaders.
“It’s a wonderful way of teaching kids about sustainability,” Prof de Kretser said.
“They’re going to go home and convert their parents – and be a thorn in their side.”
Prof de Kretser was “amazed” at Burrinja Cultural Centre’s Aboriginal art collection and current exhibitions.
He and Mrs de Kretser left their mark on Burrinja artist-in-residence Emma Johnson’s giant laughing chalkboard.
The Governor added eyebrows to the evolving artwork, while his wife left a message – ‘Love this place!’