Governor of Victoria, Margaret Gardner, visits Hindmarsh and West Wimmera Shires
Last week, Her Excellency Professor, the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, embarked on a regional visit across Hindmarsh and West Wimmera Shires. As the 30th Governor of Victoria and only the second woman to hold this position, Governor Gardner’s visit highlighted the innovative and forward-thinking businesses in the region.
In a radio interview, Governor Gardner expressed her admiration for several local businesses, including Hannaton Stud, GrainFlow Dimboola, Luv-a-Duck, Ahrens, and MiGHa Lake. She praised these businesses for their impressive products, services, and contributions that reach well beyond Victoria, noting that many are family-owned enterprises.
The Governor’s visit began on Tuesday with a briefing from Hindmarsh Shire Council, followed by a tour of Paw Po in Nhill. She then addressed a Civic Reception attended by numerous volunteers from Hindmarsh Shire. In the evening, Governor Gardner met with Councillors, Senior Management from Hindmarsh Shire Council, and members of the Hindmarsh Shire Youth Council.
On Wednesday, Governor Gardner continued her regional tour with a visit to the Luv-a-Duck Hatchery and a Luv-a-Duck growing shed. She also toured the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre and, later in the afternoon, visited Ahrens Silo in Tarranyurk.
The Governor’s regional tour concluded on Thursday with a briefing from West Wimmera Shire Council, followed by a visit to Hannaton Poll Merinos & White Suffolks.
Reflecting on her visit in an interview with the ABC, Governor Gardner described the experience as “wonderful,” emphasising the vastness of the area and her opportunity to visit numerous businesses, admire silo art, and engage with community members.
See all the photos in the issue.
This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 21 August 2024.






