
The Conversation Hour
Expect engaging discussions with real people and inspiring stories connecting communities across Victoria, on The Conversation Hour with Richelle Hunt and Jonathon Kendall.
Episodes

Identifying the early signs of dementia
New research from The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has highlighted the difficulty of getting a dementia diagnosis, with less than half receiving a diagnosis in the first year. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore how the role of the GP could simplify the process.Also in this episode, the role of the AFL mascot in lifting the mood of a game, our fraugh

How will the immigration changes impact farmers?
With food producers already struggling to find workers for the upcoming harvest season, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what the backpacker changes announced by the Federal Government will mean for farmers, food production and the cost of living more broadly.Also in this edition, getting young people into reading, a big weekend for country footy. Plus, does a

Celebrating Australian books
In this very special edition of The Conversation Hour, hosted by Hilary Harper, we collaborate with Radio National's Top 100 Australian books to celebrate the Australian books that you love.Authors Louise Milligan, Robert Gott, Tony Birch and program director of the Queenscliff Literary festival Elizabeth McCarthy reflect on the writing that matters to them.

Community opposition to data centres grows
Community opposition to data centres grows. We speak to president of Citizens for Totnam Jacqui Glover, about the data centre being built metres from her home. New research shows structural barriers, not masculinity, are keeping men out of care work and the Alannah and Madeline Foundation commemorates 30years of important work.

Zali Steggal on sexualising women in sport
Former Olympian and MP Zali Steggal weighs in on the negative impacts of a new betting commercial that sexualises and belittles women in sport. We explore the feasibility of upgrading the Upfield line with campaigner Andrea Bunting and Johnathon Spear of infrastructure Victoria. A new guide reveals wearing a poorly fitted bra, or not having access to sports bras, severely impacts

The NFL is go
Well, it's finally game day and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we cross to the MCG to get all the colour and movement from the NFL. Speaking of sport, we also cross to the States to get the latest on the US Open.Also in this edition, the cost of rising sea levels. Plus, as the UN votes to adapt a new more accurate map, we ask you about the maps you have held onto.

The NFL has come to town
As the state gears up for the NFL tomorrow morning, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what this Melborrne match means for the game globally.Also in this edition, men's relationship with their faces, what role you GP can play in your mental health plan. Plus, what does it mean to be an art theft investigator?

How is your attention span?
The International PISA test indicates a decline in Australian students reading and maths performance. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what role dwindling attention spans play in these results.Also in this edition, preventing child abuse, arts centre strikes. Plus, why pet owner keep social media accounts for their fluffy friends.

Where are we at with plastic recycling reform in Australia
Three years ago the Federal Government said that it would introduce national packaging scheme to help reduce plastic waste. The scheme has however been shelved. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at what underpins that decision and what the repercussions of the decision will be.Also in this editon, how young people should manage a bad boss, concern over the rise in

Why we need to improve early intervention for people living with an eating disorders
A new report from Eating Disorders Victoria has highlighted that eating disorders in Victoria have remained at COVID levels, with emergency department presentations reaching 40 cases a week. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss the underlying factor and the importance of seeking help early.Also in this edition, concerns about Fire Rescue Victoria's resourcing and r

International penguin conference comes to Phillip Island
From bird flu to rising ocean temperatures — an international conference at Phillip Island has been looking at the challenges the world's penguin population face. In this edition of the Conversation Hour we discuss the current threats and what is being done to protect this much loved seabird.Also in this edition, we celebrate 50 years of The Muppet Show, get the latest from the U

Should students be explicitly taught how to behave in class?
New research from the The Centre for Independent Studies has revealed that one third of class time in Australian schools is being lost to disruptive students . In this edition of The Conversation Hour Mary speaks with the research author about why appropriate behaviour should be explicitly taught in schools.Also in this edition, why there has been a downturn in Australians travel

How is your relationship with your face?
In this very special edition of The Conversation Hour special actor Debra Lawrance and writer Kate Halfpenny join Mary Gearin for a wide-ranging chat on the complex relationship women have with their face as they age.

Why protein intake during menopause matters
New data from the CSIRO reveals that protein can actually help women maintain a health weight during menopause. In this this edition of The Conversation we speak with the researcher about the study and how it is that eating more protein can actually assist in weight loss.Also in this edition, the importance of finding the right shoe size, if you can. Plus, soccer great Lionel Mes

Why we need to talk about how we implement concussion protocols in sport
Concussion protocols have made headlines again this week as cricketer Will Pucovski sues Brighton Grammar over an alleged concussion from when he was student at the school. And today there was fierce debate about Geelong Football Club's $140,000 fine for failing to tell the AFL about the Jake Kolodjashnij concussion waiver. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss how

Understanding the impact of the devasting Nepal-Tibet flash floods
As the situation continues to unfold, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we look at the impact of the massive flash flooding event to hit Nepal, the affected communities and the challenges ahead for aid agencies trying to access the region.Also in this edition we pay tribute to the late Tim Curry and celebrate Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Celebrating the life of Dolly Parton
With sad news this morning that country music legend Dolly Parton has died aged 80, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we celebrate her life and legacy. Also in this edition, the impact of concussion on a developing brains. Plus, we cross to Bright where a memorial service took place honouring Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Wa

The Conversation Hour takes you to Narre Warren
In this edition of The Conversation Hour Mary Gearin broadcasts from Bunjil Place in the South Eastern suburb of Narre Warren. It's a fast growing area, and today we explore what that growth means for the local community, with all the challenges and opportunities it presents.

Does Melbourne need a new arena?
With calls for a new 20,000 seat arena to support live events in Melbourne, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what it would mean for our local music scene, and how to best support Victorian artists.Also in this edition, calls to ban gambling logos on sports jerseys plus what should you always keep in the boot of your car.

Sydney Swans sexual assault allegation: Lawyer representing two of the women speaks out
Mary speaks with John Karantzis, the lawyer representing two of the women at the centre of the Sydney Swans sexual assault investigation.

Misogyny in our schools
A new University of Melbourne report reveals some alarming statistics of the prevalence of misogyny in our schools. We speak to two Victorian teachers working on the frontline of this cultural crisis and Dr. Sara Meger shares the findings of her report.

Firefighters call to fix mobile phone black spots
Firefighters fear for community safety amid calls to fix mobile black spots in Victoria ahead of the upcoming fire season. Fire Rescue Commissioner Gavin Freeman gives the Spring weather and fire forecast. And for the first time, 10 YouTube content creators have been inducted into the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia. We speak to inductee Eddie Woo and NFSA CEO Patric

Should you be able to access your Super early
Economist Saul Eslake examines the viability of accessing your Super early. We speak to CEO of Our Watch, former VWFL player Patty Kinnersly about AFL player respect training. And Animal Behaviourist, Kate Mornement discusses a new report that claims Otters enjoy people watching as much as we do.

Does removing public seating make a community safer
We examine Brimbank Council’s decision to remove seating in Sunshine following concerns about antisocial behaviour, but does this just move social problems elsewhere? We look at an outreach model that has been working to de-escalate incidents and connect vulnerable people with housing, health and social support. The European Union has brought in new laws banning the destruction

Students across Australia protest against One Nation and Pauline Hanson
Protest organiser Felix Hughes and the Longitudinal Head of Growing Up in Australia, Kirsten Campbell, discuss ways in which young people today are engaging in politics. Following yesterday’s chat to provide free third spaces for young people, we catch up on the community pressure to stall the sale of Brunswick’s community centre Don Bosco. And a new Neighbourhood Watch report on

WA trials mass AI surveillance to prevent crime, will Victoria follow suit
We speak to Associate Professor Jake Goldenfein about the accuracy of AI facial recognition. And personal injury Lawyer Nick Mann offers a legal perspective on the Geelong concussion contract.

The Census: why everyone should be counted
We talk about the hidden and ongoing costs of childhood cancer with Redkite CEO Monique Keighery, and mother of two Samantha Leffler, whose 1-year-old daughter Florence was diagnosed with a Wilms tumour.Liz Allen takes your Census questions and shares her personal connection to the Census, why she became a Demographer and why she believes every Australian should be counted.And Pa

Joel Bowden on the AFL concussion scandal
Former AFL player Joel Bowden brings a human perspective to the Geelong concussion saga.

Understanding the repercussions of the Geelong concussion deal
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we continue to discuss the Geelong concussion deal and ask what the AFL and Players Association should be doing in response.Also in this edition, improving fatigue warnings for new parents. Plus a new theatre production delves into Melbourne's night life.

AFL club makes player liable for concussion risk
A Victorian AFL club has reportedly made a secret deal where a player was made liable for their own concussion risk. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we ask what the AFL should be doing to prevent this happening again.Also in this edition, how dental health impacts self esteem, has gambling reform become to hard? Plus, FIFA backs Infantino after failed plans for partial s

The pressure on boys and men meet body image ideals
Yesterday on the Conversation Hour we discussed whether it is ok to comment on someone's looks. In this edition we look at the pressures that men and boys face in maintaining body image ideals.Also in this episode, concerns about how carry on luggage costs will impact people living with a disability, the latest on IBAC, plus as British 90s trip hop outfit Massive Attack tour Aust

Is it ever ok to comment on how someone looks?
There has been much media scrutiny around Ariana Grande's weight and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore is it ever ok to make a comment on another's physical appearance.Also in this edition, aged care affordability, claims of historic sexual abuse at a Melbourne alternative school. And why the indoor cats are doing ok.

Will declining house prices make aged care unaffordable?
While prospective home buyers might be celebrating the down turn in house prices, others, particularly those considering aged care options hold concerns around how they will afford aged care. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore how older Victorians might potentially be impacted.Also in this edition, preventing parents behaving badly at their kids sport, what the C

How did MTV change the music industry?
MTV turns 45 this weekend and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk the rise of the music video and how it changed the music industry.Also in this edition, what will a change of premier mean for small business in Victoria? Is FIFA for sale? Plus remembering music journalist Glenn A. Baker who has died aged 74.

Bird flu has been detected in Victoria
The H5N1 bird flu has now been detected in Victoria, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss how it might potentially impact Victorian agriculture and also the our native wildlife.Also in this edition, Australia's sprint success at the Commonwealth Games, when a bad online review can be a positive, plus how to support young sports stars.

What will Labor's election campaign look like under Ben Carroll
Ben Carroll has been Victoria's new premier for 24 hours and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk what the election campaign will look and feel like under his leadership.Also in this edition, Eildon gets a new tourist attraction, Qantas tests a direct flight from Melbourne to Toulouse, plus we celebrate sprint at the Commonwealth Games.

Victoria you have a new premier, so what just happened?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour, we take you through the morning's twists and turns of the Labour leadership challenge which has seen Ben Carroll become Victoria's 50th premier.Also in this edition, we celebrate Australia's Commonwealth Games swimming wins, plus pay tribute to former Goodies star, the late Bill Oddie who has died aged 85.

How will the leadership challenge impact your vote?
Victoria's premier Jacinta Allan is facing a potential leadership challenge just four months out from a state election. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what how much this challenge will influence how you vote.Also in this edition, should significant trees have legal protections? A push for mandatory reporting for wildlife road strikes. Plus, a concerning rise

Should it companies be banned from paying ransom to data hackers?
With news of another data hack this week, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at just how frequently companies are paying up, how much it perpetuates copycat crime and whether the paying of ransom money should be made illegal. Also in this edition, fuel prices are expected to rise again, but by how much? And later in the hour, the push to keep ancient languages alive

The push to save the Don Bosco Youth Centre
The Don Bosco Youth Centre in Brunswick has been listed for sale. In this edition of The Conversation Hour, we discuss what role the centre has played in the community and the push to save it.Also in this edition, teacher strike action, an Open AI model goes rogue during testing, plus why is there a decline in job mobility in younger people?

The Conversation Hour visits Ringwood's Realm
In this edition of The Conversation Hour Mary Gearin broadcasts live from Ringwood's Realm and we meet the locals making an impact.

When Barnaby Joyce yelled at his dog
There was a bit of a moment on 7:30 when Barnaby Joyce yelled at his dog on live tv. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss if the moment will influence perceptions about Joyce, and how much of it is a distraction from key policy discussions. We also get the lowdown from a pet behaviourist about best practice when managing pet behaviour, particularly in high pressure

How do you rate the 2026 Word Cup?
As the Word Cup draws to a close in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the highs and lows of the tournament and ask how you would rate it.Also in this edition, Hinkley announced as Tassie Devils coach, a push for pedestrian safety, understanding the Odyssey, plus Victoria farewells Derryn Hinch.

A call to improve dignity and inclusion for affordable housing tenants in mixed tenure housing developments
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we meet Georgie Armstrong who details her experience of being an affordable housing tenant in a mixed tenure development. Georgie shares her concerns that the grouping together of affordable housing residents to certain floors and not having the same level of access to amenities as full paying tenants perpetuates a sense of social exclusio

Is Messi set to be the greatest of all time?
With Argentina's win over England in the World Cup semi-final this morning, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk the legacy of Lionel Messi and ask is he the greatest of all time?Also in this edition, the latest on travel advice and transit through the Middle East, winter gardening. Plus, is coffee in Australia over-rated?

Another data centre proposed for Victoria
In this edition of The Conversation Hour, we look at planning laws surrounding data centres following news one is proposed for Miners Rest near Ballarat.Also in this episode, new research into how engaged the younger generation is when it comes to politics.

Fighting the shame around being scammed
You may have seen actor Christie Whelan-Browne social media post detailing her experience of falling victim to a vehicle scam referred to as carnapping. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at just how far this practice and also explore how to reduce the shame associated with it.Also in this edition, what underpins the poor snow season, the latest on the Straight of H

Are you finding it tricky to navigate aged care fees?
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has received almost 200 complaints about aged care service charges and and fees to residents the this year. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss how to improve the transparency of the fee structure, what services could and should constitute standard care in contrast to premium services and what the regulator should be doi

Celebrating NAIDOC week and Fifty Years of Deadly
In this edition of the Conversation Hour Daniel James is joined by Djaran Murray-Jackson, Co-Chair of Gellung Warl, to talk Treaty and what the NAIDOC theme Fifty Years of Deadly means to him.Also in this edition, Aunty Professor Lynette Riley Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC Committee, discusses how the committee landed on this years NAIDOC theme.Plus, Daniel chats with two of th

The impact of the Telstra on Victorian communities
As Telstra experiences a widespread network outage in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the impact on Victorian communities from business to transport, and also look at how the outage highlights the importance of having cash.Also in this edition, from Wimbledon to the World Cup — how are the big international tournaments affecting you? From when you sleep, to what

Reducing side effects stigma for women going through cancer treatment
New research has revealed that women are enduring pain and discomfort from gynaecological side effects from cancer treatments due to the stigma associate with the conditions. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with the report author about the need for health care workers to be more proactive in discussing the side effects, to ensure their patients health and wellbe

Ensuring player safety in suburban footy
With the devastating news that Epping footy player Nathan Fitzgerald is on end of life care after suffering head injuries, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss calls for an investigation into how hard cricket pitches are covered on multi-use community sporting ovals.Also in this edition, a peak behind the curtains at the Australian Ballet, what it takes to be a cel

Does the gambling reform legislation go far enough?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour Kirsten Diprose is joined by anti-gambling advocate Tim Costello who shares how he thinks the federal government gambling reforms could be improved.Also in this edition, we talk life at 60, plus cross to the States for all the latest on the rumoured Taylor Swift wedding at Madison Square Garden.

How in sync are you with the 'social clock'?
It's commonly understood that there are certain unofficial markers we are meant to hit at a certain age, from getting your drivers licence to buying house. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what underpins those social pressures and how to combat the anxiety these social expectations can create.Plus, a new KPMG study says the debate is settled and that current Au

Reducing stigma toward people who experience mental health challenges
A new report into the stigma and discrimination experienced by people with mental health challenges has highlighted that negative attitudes remain an ongoing issue, despite growing awareness about complex mental health conditions. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we hear from someone who lives with schizophrenia plus National Mental Health Commission to explore what under

New school education program tackles stigma around women's health
A new program, jointly funded by federal and state governments, will see specialist pelvic health educators visit schools to discuss women's health issues such as endometriosis, periods and pelvic pain. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what this means for reducing the mystery and stigma about women's health.Also in this edition, concerns for residents of long-t

How is the shifting property market impacting your plans?
As auction clearance rates and house prices fall, in this edition of The Conversation Hour, we ask how these changes are impacting you?Also in this edition, what it is to live with young onset dementia and the new resource for people recently diagnosed. Plus, why Madonna's biopic was scrapped.If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia

A Socceroos special
In this edition of the Conversation Hour we bring you all the action as the Socceroos gear up to compete against Paraguay. Plus, we talk the legaliteis of taking a sickie.

Zali Steggall talks Community Strong Australia
Independents Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall have teamed up to form a new party which they have called Community Strong Australia. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Ms Steggall reflects on what the party will stand for and how the party will work, plus we get analysis from author and former adviser to Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, Sean Kelly.Also in this edition, a woman

New study points to lack of evidence that IVF add-ons are are effective
A new study from The University of Melbourne has found there is a lack of evidence that IVF add-ons improve fertility. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we take a look at the research and discuss what resources are available to women to make informed decisions around treatment.Also in this edition, how much does emotional labour lead to work burnout? Plus, as Daryl Braith

Does authenticity in politics matter?
UK PM Keir Starmer has resigned, and ex-Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is favoured to take over role. Some commentary has focused on the role of charisma in the rise as a determinant of political success and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we ask how much charisma, authenticity and conviction sway who you vote for. Also in this edition, the broader impacts of bird fl

How do school suspensions impact young people?
New data obtained by The Age shows that around 150 students are suspended each school day in Victoria. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the ongoing impact of a school suspension on younger people and the correlation between suspensions and youth crime.Also in this edition, will Andy Burnham become the UK's next PM, winter swimming and could human composting be

All eyes on Soccer in Seattle
It's a big weekend ahead as the Socceroos take on the USA in Seattle in the World Cup. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with an American-Australian sports journalist to preview the game and find out who he will be barracking for. Plus, we cross to a few venues around Melbourne set to open super early about their World Cup preparations.Also in this edition, what i

Mary takes you to Mill Park Library
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we venture out to Mill Park Library for a wide ranging conversation about the role of libraries in your community, plus hear the stories of the libraries from your childhood.

What's the future of the fabric store?
With the closure of Lincraft's physical stores , in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the future of the fabric shop and what it means for dressmakers.Also in this edition, the rugby league is go, but does anyone know how to pronounce the Maroons. Plus, we catch up with Bangarra Dance Theatre artistic director Frances Rings about their latest production.

New report indicates concerning rates of drug overdose in Australia
New analysis from the Penington Institute has indicated seven drug overdose fatalities per day in 2024. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what underpins this increase and what needs to happen to prevent these deaths.Also in this edition, keeping your home healthy during the winter months, orchid hunting plus is there such a thing as too much Bond?

Will petrol prices in Australia improve?
With news of the US and Iran agreeing to a ceasefire deal, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore what this will mean for petrol prices in Australia.Also in this edition, we look at plans to create a new 13-day hiking trail along the Yarra, talk men's health, plus catch up with Vika and Linda Bull to celebrate their induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame.

Celebrating Spiderbait
Last night saw six Australian acts join ARIA's Hall of Fame including 3-piece rockers Spiderbait. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Mary catches up with Janet English, the bands bassists and vocalist, to reflect on the band's legacy. Also in this edition, a new PFAS class action, plus the politics of The World Cup.

Improving the life of tenants
From installing solar panels to getting rid of mould, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at what landlords could and should to to improve the life of renters.Also in this edition, preventing the illegal operation of solariums, plus, the story of your wool jumper.

Have we forgotten how to behave at the theatre?
You may have seen the video of actor Rosamund Pike reprimanding an audience member for texting during a piece of theatre. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what considerate theatre behaviour should look like and just how much mobile phones are impacting our manners.Also in this edition, we cross the MCG ahead of Neale Daniher's state funeral, talk the popularity

How much does social class determine who you vote for?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore the connection between social class and the way we vote , and whether politicians have misunderstood the so called working class.Also in this edition, new research into the mental health of renters, declining rates of young people having the HPV vaccine. Plus, a stoush in the magic community over the exclusion of a robot magicia

Remembering Richard Scolyer
Former Australian of the Year and leading melanoma researcher and pathologist , Professor Richard Scolyer, has died aged 59. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we pay tribute to him and also reflect on what it is to live with a life threatening illness.Plus, later in the program combating marine trafficking, a guide to understanding the 'beautiful game' and we catch up with

Are female voters moving to the far-right?
Recent polling has indicated that Pauline Hanson is the most popular party leader among women voters, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore whether women voting for the far-right is part of a broader global trend.Also in this edition, staying safe in the snow, why park rangers are taking industrial action. Plus, do you keep a journal?

Is it good that house prices are dropping?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour independent economist Saul Eslake joins Mary Gearin to chat about how the recent drop in house prices could mark a shift towards seeing housing as a basic human right, over an investment opportunity. Also in this episode, should Victoria follow the NSW government's medicinal cannabis driving reforms? Plus, a fashion runway with a differenc

Is alcohol delivery reform in Victoria actually working?
The effectiveness of recent reforms aimed to reduce harm from alcohol delivery services has been subject to a new study from Monash University and Turning Point. The report found that four in ten Victorians surveyed had received an alcohol delivery while intoxicated, despite the reforms prohibiting delivering to consumers who are intoxicated or appear intoxicated. In this edition

On getting students to complete year 12
Recent data indicates that almost 20 per cent of Australian students don't finish school, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore how schools are best placed to retain students.Also in this edition, tax tips with the ATO, the return of Serena Williams, birthdays in the age of social media and could Australia's scam prevention program be improved?

Is it ok to take your kid on holiday during the school semester?
New figures have indicated that Victorian students are missing more than seven million days of classes each year in part due to parents taking them on holiday. In this edition of The Conversation we look at just how prevalent this is becoming and why some parents opt to travel during the semester.Also in this edition, will we see the rise of progressive populism in Australia?Plus

Understanding dementia risk factors
New research from Jean Hailes and Dementia Australia has revealed that most women are unaware of the factors that my contribute to their dementia risk, as well as the mortality rates. In this edition of the Conversation we talk what can reduce your dementia risk.Also in this edition, why Gen Z loves the 90s and the rise of line dancing.

Talking about sex midlife and beyond
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk the sexual health of older Australians and how it is an often neglected area of research, particularly when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases.Also in this edition, dealing with 'scanxiety' after a blood cancer diagnosis. Plus, is 'baby brain' really a thing?

What makes a great AFL coach ?
In the wake of Brad Scott's departure from Essendon, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with AFL legends Kevin Sheedy and Joel Bowden about what makes a great coach.Also, in this edition preventing child criminal exploitation, why younger generations are favouring texts over calls, plus we pay tribute to a family run business that is closing its doors after 172 yea











