Tom ‘Scotty’ Turley is a much-loved local around Woodend, volunteering for his footy club, the Woodend-Hesket Masters Football Club, and helping out with events like the farmers’ market. Growing up in a small country town in Scotland, Woodend reminds him of home. Scotty tells Elsie Lange a bit about his love for Woodend, its friendly people and his ultimate delight in singing.
Tell us a bit about you and what you do?
I was born in Scotland but the best decision I made was coming to Australia 44 years ago. I was told the best place to come to for my work was Melbourne. My first job in Melbourne was at the beautiful Windsor Hotel as a maintenance painter and decorator. There I met many interesting people. I then branched out on my own and have now retired to enjoy the country life in Woodend.
Where do you live?
My wife and I moved to Woodend in 2016 to be near our younger son and his family. We built our home in Woodend while getting to know the area by our house sitting in Macedon and Woodend which we really enjoyed. We love our home from which we have a lovely view of Mt Macedon and the Cross.
What do you like about where you live?
Our favourite part is the fact you can see native wildlife on a daily basis and enjoy visits from so much colourful birdlife. Having been born in a small town in Scotland that has hills all around I feel very much at home here. Even the weather reminds me of where I come from.
Woodend has so many fantastic people who make newcomers very welcome. After going to watch the Masters Football Team train one night I was invited to help as the equipment manager and make sure everything is in order for training and games. The support they the club give each other is wonderful. After the storm last year they really supported and helped those who needed it to clear up their properties.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.
My favourite hobby is singing. I am currently a member of “Forever Young ” a choir in Bendigo, the only criteria for membership is you have to be over 65. We usually perform once a year at the Ulumbarra Theatre in Bendigo but unfortunately Covid-19 has affected the last two years of choir.
Also while a member of The Choir whose conductor is Jonathan Welch I had the pleasure of singing at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome and The Royal Albert Hall. I spent many happy years in Melbourne singing light opera with several companies including The Gilbert and Sullivan Society and Savoy Opera Company.
