Grampians District Tenants News

Mr Ray Maher from the Vale Street units has lived here at the units for over twelve months now. Ray was born in Kyabram Victoria in February 1940. He is the first born of twin boys. He and his brother Alan where named by their father after he went outside and saw the street name, Alan and Ray was a ray of sunshine. Ray has an older brother and a sister. The family moved to Ballarat when Ray was 9 years old. Ray got married here in Ballarat at age 21 and had two children, Steven and Jenny. Ray now has 8 grandchildren, 5 boys and 3 girls. All the family lives here in Ballarat although Ray sees more of his son than the rest of the family.

Ray worked at the Ballarat Base Hospital for 22 years until he was made redundant at age 54. He enjoyed the job very much. After the redundancy Ray started  bus driving for special events like race meetings and concerts etc. He still makes the odd bus trip for special events and attended the Avoca races recently plus a concert in Melbourne.  He likes to stay occupied and keeps busy with his cars and particularly enjoys detailing his cars. Ray was married for 46 years but is now happily divorced. 

He was living in private accommodation near the Lake but found the cost prohibitive. Since moving to Vale street Ray has found life much easier to take and really enjoys the atmosphere here plus he has more disposable funds for living expenses. He finds it restrained and well organised and the neighbours  friendly.