Anthony moved to Rochester in December where he took on his first country posting after studying theology at various churches in Geelong and a curacy at All Saints in Clayton.
A country boy originally, Anthony grew up on a dairy farm — the property then becoming a chicken farm — in Freshwater Creek, near Geelong.
After studying at Geelong Technical School, he became a fitter and turner where he worked in Geelong for more than 20 years during which time he rediscovered his faith when he was about 30.
Now, he has moved with his wife and three kids to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and he’s looking to stay in town for some time.
‘‘I loved growing up on a farm and having that trade background I was drawn to the Rochester area,’’ he said.
‘‘I thought it might suit me. This is a new position here, combining the churches and so we’re moving slowly at the moment.
‘‘But I’m enjoying driving around the country as opposed to the city traffic.’’
The three boys are about to start their secondary schooling and Anthony said, time permitting, he was looking to get involved in playing tennis and golf as well as repairing furniture as a hobby.
‘‘It’ll be good to make those community connections, especially when the boys start playing sport,’’ he said.
‘‘I’m keen for it (this role) to be long-term, some of the churches haven’t had a long-term minister recently and so I’m keen to stay around.’’
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