IF THERE was ever a quintessential Australian guy, it would be Peter “Wilko” Wilkins.
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Mr Wilkins was Leeton shire’s Australia Day ambassador in 2017 and he joined in on celebrations on Thursday in Mountford Park.
As is the norm, Mr Wilkins addressed the crowd on the day, leaving many in stitches of his tales as a sports broadcaster and lover of all things Australian.
He regaled the crowd with stories of the famous people he has met and interviewed.
It was also his 15th wedding anniversary to wife Susie.
Having spent time in Leeton during the lead up to Australia Day, he was impressed with the spirit of the shire.
“It’s about the people … the people you meet and the community,” Mr Wilkins said.
“Life is far more enjoyable (in a small community).
“On Australia Day I like to celebrate being with people, thinking about the people I’ve met and the people that aren’t here anymore.”
Mr Wilkins is most known for his long-running career with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
He has worked for the ABC for 37 years predominately in sports broadcasting.
This role has included being a presenter, commentator and reporter in both television and radio.
In 2012, Mr Wilkins received the prestigious Australia Sports Commission's Lifetime Achievement Award for services to sporting journalism.
During his presentation, he also showed off his musical ability, serenading the crowd with the song Throw Your Arms Around Me by Hunters and Collectors.
Mr Wilkins also touched on the tough time the Leeton community had faced in recent years with the tragic death of Stephanie Scott.
He said during that period the true Australian spirit of togetherness and unity had shone through not just in Leeton, but across the country.
“You needed the person next to you in support … there was a heinous crime committed,” Mr Wilkins said.
“You’ve put (that) behind you and moved ahead into the next phase, which is something you can approach with memories, yes, but certainly some optimism and you are being led by some very good people.
“We shared that pain if it’s some small solace.
“It touched everybody and if we grab a little more of that pain and take it away we will.”
Mr Wilkins was pleased to be in Leeton and pleased to be taking in all that the shire offered.
“It is good to be here,” he said. “I’m going to be enjoying a beer or two … it’s Australia Day and I’m not ashamed to admit that.”
