TIGHT community bonds have seen Mal Chambers and Rae Broadbent at the heart of the Campbells Forest district community for more than 70 years.
A working bee when Mal’s World War Two soldier settler father died helped him harvest two crops.
Or the neighbours that Rae has described as inspiring role models to him and the family that settled at Yarreaberb in 1912.
Their connection to the district was acknowledged at a community farewell in the Campbells Forest Hall on Sunday. More than 70 people spanning the generations saying thanks as Mal and Rae prepare for retirement in the Bendigo suburb of Maiden Gully.
“We’ve known each other all our lives and I even bought the new home of a Broadbent, but no relation to Rae,” Mal said after being toasted in speeches.
“I’ve loved this place, shearing for families ... loved the morning teas, especially at the Broadbents.
“For 73 years I have lived in the same house, took over the farm from dad in 1968, been a member of the fire brigade and took my turn going over to Bridgewater on a Saturday to collect the newspapers for neighbours around Campbells Forest.”
Mal said the community had always been close-knit, for him best demonstrated with help after his father died.
Rae said: “Luck plays a huge part in our lives. The Broadbents were so lucky that Rae senior selected his 320 acres of Yarraberb Station in 1912 before heading off to the Great War.
“Even luckier that Rae returned ... four sons went to war, the youngest didn’t return.”
He said generations of Broadbents had been “very lucky to have grown up and worked our land in our close, active community and living in a relatively pleasing farming area.”
Rae recalled a childhood dodging swooping magpies, attending  church in Campbells Forest and playing junior sport in Bridgewater.
He said experiences of social events in the district and fire brigade practice “all contribute to make a wonderful life and district to live in and be proud of”.
Rae said that after marrying Jan in 1987, she “soon established a reputation with our wonderful local shearing team for her yummy scones and cream at smoko”.
“The common denominator among all the people over the years has been that they are hardworking, honest people plus they have all contributed to and been involved in their community,” he said.
“I have tried to replicate this all my life and I encourage everyone to be involved in the community.”
Members of the Campbells Forest Hall Committee organised Sunday’s farewell afternoon team to thank Rae, Mal and families.