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Life in service: Ross shares his Royal story

FOOTMAN and valet to Royalty, Ross Gairn shared his experiences in Bealiba on Sunday as the first King’s Birthday holiday in 70 years was observed.

Ross was guest speaker at Dunolly Gilbert and Sullivan Festival afternoon attended by 40 people from across the Loddon and adjoining areas.

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The Australian who is again living in Melbourne, spent almost a decade in service of the Royal family in the 1970s.

He was first in the comptroller’s office at Balmoral Castle, Scotland before becoming a footman to Queen Elizabeth and then served as a valet to her husband, Prince Phillip for six years.

Ross recalled how one of his jobs in his early years was walking the corgis. “I got on well with them,” he said.

The pianist and composer also shared the personally written reply from the Queen to his letter of condolence after the death of Prince Philip in 2021.

Monday’s royal gathering was in the former Catholic church, owned by Ross’ nephew Phillip Smith. Members of the local CWA catered for the function.

Be part of Healthy Minds committee

Loddon Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from residents across the municipality, to represent the community on the Loddon Healthy Minds Network committee.

The Loddon Healthy Minds Network promotes and advocates for improved wellbeing and access to appropriate services for people in Loddon Shire a ected by mental health issues.

If you have an interest in improving mental health and wellbeing in the wider Loddon Shire community, we would be interested in hearing from you.

For more information or to obtain the Healthy Minds Network Terms of Reference or an Expression of Interest form please contact Vicki Andrew on 54941230, healthyminds@loddon.vic.gov.au or visit the Loddon Healthy Minds Website www. loddonhealthyminds.com.au

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