Kyneton local and rotary club president Hartley Uebergang tells Zoe Moffatt about his connection to the area and community work.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
Now I am retired I have some spare time that is spent taking in the scenery around central Victoria, and reading. When I moved to Kyneton I had to hire a three ton truck to move my library, so I have books by the dozen. I find it a wonderful pastime and good for the soul.
What’s your connection to Kyneton?
I came to Kyneton from Melbourne after working in the automotive industry for 30 years as I felt I needed some fresh air. My ageing mother also lived in Kyneton, and after looking after myself, it was time I returned the favour.
What do you like about where you live?
Kyneton has lots to offer, I am a foodie so I have fitted in well. I also believe Kyneton is a great place to enjoy some pretty amazing coffee.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I believe Kyneton should take more advantage of the local artists, whether they be potters, painters or sculptors and whatever else may be out there. They could all combine for a huge weekend or art, which is good for art, good for Kyneton and good for central Victoria.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?
The thing that will come as a surprise to many is the fact that I love being a 14 year old again and playing trains. Yes you read right. I love playing with my model railway. I have a layout based on the Victorian Railway end of steam era. My favourite is the Mathew Flinders towing the World famous Spirit of Progress. This train was a revolution in its day. Again all good for the soul.
You have recently become the president of Kyneton Rotary, do you want to tell us a bit about that?
Yes there is still time to spare and that’s where rotary fits in. I have been elected as president of the Kyneton Rotary Club for the coming year. So not a lot of reading or playing trains.
I am looking forward to working with the club in its many different avenues. We are partnering with a rotary club in Cambodia to assist in educating underprivileged students. The program teaches sanitation, water quantity, the ability to earn an income as well as secondary and tertiary education. A very important aspect to the program is to assist in the raising up of young women. I am delighted to be part of this program.
The club will also continue its partnership with the Kyneton Scouts and various secondary school programs.
