Dale began at the Yarrawonga Chronicle in 2004 as an advertising consultant and was transferred to the Free Press when an opening became available. She stayed in the role for two years, left, and returned for another two years, before ultimately returning in 2014 in an administration and advertising role.
No task was ever a challenge for Dale. She did it all, from photocopying and lamination to classifieds, reception duties and maintaining great relationships with advertising clients.
“I have really loved getting to know the community and being able to assist them,” she said.
“You meet some really interesting people along the way, and many have become great friends of mine. From the Gyles family who pop in daily, to friendly faces that pop in on a weekly or monthly basis, they have all really made the job worthwhile.
“We only ever kicked someone out if they were a Collingwood supporter.”
Over the years Dale worked very closely alongside former Free Press administration extraordinaire Jenny Doody.
“Jenny was wonderful to work with,” Dale said.
“She had a wealth of knowledge, and we had a great working relationship. We built a great friendship together outside of work as well. To this day, she still pops in to see us. I occasionally still call on her from time to time too if I have a question about people’ s whereabouts.”
Over the years, Dale also worked with many young journalists who came through the doors.
“They were only allowed to work here if they didn’t barrack for Collingwood,” Dale said.
“It was always lovely to take a young journalist under our wing. They often referred to me, or Jenny when she was here, as a work mum.
“Our mainstay journalist Moose has been a great mentor to our young journalists. He has always looked out for us here in Corowa too. It’s been a pleasure working with him.”
Dale said there had had been a few changes in her time, mainly as programs and systems were updated.
“This year, The Free Press and The Chronicle moved to a new system which took us all a while to adapt to,” she said.
“While there is always a challenge with learning new ways to do things, it means the paper can run more efficiently.”
Dale said it had been a privilege to work for The Free Press for many years.
“I want to thank Jared and the entire Loughnan family for their support over the years. Particularly in the last few months,” she said.
“I am really going to miss everyone. It’s been wonderful journey.”
Managing Editor Jared Loughnan said Dale will be missed my both staff and clients at The Free Press.
“Dale has been a loyal and much respected member of our team even though she is a one-eyed Blues supporter,” Jared said.
“Nothing was ever a problem for Dale, she was always up for a challenge and was never phased taking on new roles, even doing her job from home during the pandemic lockdowns.
“She will be missed by everyone, but we wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement and travels.”
Dale’s last day at the Free Press will be Tuesday, December 20, with Megan Dunn taking over the administration reins and the Chronicle’s Lisa Menzies fulfilling the advertising role.
Dale’s plans for the future include spending more time with her husband of 37-years Greg. The pair plan to purchase a caravan and travel all over Australia for the foreseeable future, visiting interesting places and calling in to visit their children and grandchildren.
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