Our People
25 September, 2025
Proud to be on the team
A stalwart of the Ararat Football Netball Club was beaming with pride last week, watching his beloved senior and reserves-grade Rats training as they prepared to compete for premiership glory in last Saturday's Wimmera Football League grand finals at Warracknabeal.
For decades, Graeme Johnston has been a familiar, friendly face for anyone who’s been around footy or cricket in the Ararat area, famous for his warm words of encouragement as well as for having a memory like an elephant.
‘Snake’ as he’s affectionately known, is a passionate volunteer with the Rats and when asked for his thoughts on Ararat’s 2025 season, Graeme was full of praise for his team.
“I reckon they’ve done a top job, the seniors were undefeated all year until the semi-final,” he said.
“We’re gonna make up for that this weekend and win the premiership.”
The club recognised Graeme’s unstinting dedication with the ultimate honour in 2022, presenting him with a Rats’ life membership.
“I felt very proud of myself to get that achievement,” he said, emotionally recalling the news he was to become an Ararat Football Netball Club life member.
“It was unexpected, I really love the club.”
Graeme has enjoyed watching many talented footballers who have worn the red-and-white over the years but when pressed for a favourite player, he was quick to name 2008 Toohey Medallist, Alan Batchelor.
“Batchy, of course,” Graeme said with a smile, just as Alan walked by and greeted the iconic volunteer before the start of last Tuesday’s training session.
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