Regular readers of the Tarrangower Times do not expect reportage about the AFL Grand Final or an international rap star but it turns out that there is an unexpected link.

Local resident Helen Butcher has advised that her son managed to contact Snoop Dogg — here to perform at the biggest footy game of the year — and arrange a meeting and recording session on Friday 26 September.

Helen said Ben Butcher grew up in Welshman’s Reef and went to Maldon Primary School. He works as a music teacher at Warringa Park School in Werribee South. His students, who are late-secondary school level, regularly spend time in the school recording studio, making CDs to be played on community radio.

When polled about their favourite music artists, Snoop Dogg came number three after Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber.*

“When they heard that Snoop Dogg was coming, Ben decided to try to contact him,” Helen explained.

“After many phone calls and emails with the Education Department, Snoop came and spent an hour with them. He wrote and performed an original track with the students.”

What an unforgettable moment for the students and a great accomplishment for Ben! Thanks so much to Helen for sharing. 

*(If you don’t know those names, check out their music; it could be your new favourite too).

This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 3 October 2025.