Ray’s story: A life inked in friendship and firelight

This is where his hands first met ink and paper and where he fell in love with the art of telling stories through type.

Ray also spent time working at the Rutherglen Sun, adding to his experience in regional publications, before moving into the Melbourne press.

That beginning was more than a job. It was a craft and it became the thread that wove through the rest of his working life.

For 14 years, Ray helped shape the daily heartbeat of Melbourne as a typesetter at the Herald Sun, his fingers stained black from the day’s news.

Another 14 years followed at The Age, where he learned the quiet rhythm of the presses and the loud urgency of headlines.

Back then, every letter mattered, and Ray made sure every word sat just right on the page.

When the clatter of type gave way to a new season in life, Ray and his wife took a leap and opened a milk bar in the Dandenongs.

It became more than a business — it was a place where kids counted their coins carefully, where neighbours dropped in for bread and a chat, where Ray learned to remember faces even faster than he could read the paper.

But Ray’s heart beats the loudest at the racetrack.

With a few close mates, he owned a handful of thoroughbreds — more passion than profit — but one name still makes his eyes sparkle, Atherey Star.

It was her first race at Cranbourne and she flew like lightning.

Trained by the legendary Lee Freedman and ridden by Roy Higgins, she took the win.

She was also the second favourite for the Melbourne Cup. That moment still lives bright in Ray’s memory.

These days, Ray lives a quieter life, but his stories are anything but.

And thanks to the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, they have a fresh audience.

Ray is also a proud and long-standing member of the RSL, where he’s shared many a story, raised a few glasses and honoured the mateship and service that have shaped his life.

His visitor, Lorraine Stone, isn't a stranger.

Years ago, she met Ray in her role as a social care worker.

She remembers his laughter, his generous spirit — and one particular afternoon that left a mark on both of them.

Ray had somehow managed to set his kitchen alight — a simple cooking mishap that quickly turned dramatic.

But, in true Ray fashion, it became a story of community.

His neighbours rushed to help without hesitation. They didn’t think twice.

People did that back then — helped without needing to be asked. Lorraine remembers the smell of burnt toast, the blackened frying pan, and the laughter that came once the fire was out and the kettle was on.

When Lorraine signed up for ACVVS, she never expected to be matched with Ray again.

But life has a way of circling back to the good things.

Their visits are filled with old memories, new jokes, and the kind of connection that doesn’t fade with time.

Why volunteer with ACVVS?

People like Ray are living treasures. They’ve built towns, raised families, told stories in ink and action. But too often, they’re left without someone to share those stories with.

Volunteering through ACVVS isn’t just about giving — it’s about receiving too.

You get laughter, wisdom, memories and the privilege of being trusted with a life’s worth of experiences.

Like Lorraine, you might reconnect with someone from your past.

Or you might meet someone completely new who opens your eyes to things you've never known — like how to bet on a good horse, or how to rebuild after a fire with nothing but good neighbours and strong tea.

Make a new friend. Make a difference. Become a volunteer today.

If you’ve got a little spare time and a big heart, call 1300 843 236 or email acvvs@thecentre.vic.edu.au to find out more.