Known to most as Rowan, Mr Bell has been a single parent of four children, the local animal health officer, a Moira Shire councillor and mayor for two terms and a dedicated volunteer.
His father George was house master at Dookie Agricultural College and Mr Bell grew up around animals.
“I liked working amongst animals, I used to get up early and milk the cows and drive a few horses around,” Mr Bell said.
It was no surprise when he completed a three year Diploma of Agricultural Science course at Dookie college and was employed as an animal health officer with the Department of Agriculture in 1950 — a career which spanned 35 years.
Mr Bell was the regional animal health officer until 1985, supervising staff from Corryong to Pinnaroo in South Australia.
He was a single father to Geoffrey, Wendy, Phillip and Dianne and raised his children in an environment full of love.
Mr Bell joined the Cobram Trotting Club, now Cobram Harness Racing, in 1959.
He was secretary for more than 30 years and saw a number of track upgrades and facilities for drivers, trainers, officials and the public.
Once he retired, he was appointed assistant judge by Harness Racing Victoria.
Mr Bell was also involved in the Cobram Rotary Club for 44 years and helped to open Ottrey Homes in 1992.
“We held a meeting when we didn't even own a block of land and held a walkathon to raise funds — down to Katunga and back to Cobram — a few did it but I didn't quite make it,” he said.
From 1974 to 1984, Mr Bell served on Moira Shire Council where he worked on the erection of the saleyards, tree planting and the integration of the Italian community.
“A highlight was when my daughter and I went to a reception for the Queen who stood about a metre away from us,” Mr Bell said.
In 1959, Mr Bell joined the Cobram-Barooga Golf and Bowls and served one term as vice-president.
He was selected in the A-grade bowls team for 10 consecutive years.
Mr Bell was also deeply committed to Cobram's St Margaret’s Anglican Church.
He was a parishioner and supporter of all aspects of the church and is well respected in his congregation.
“It's all about time management — a busy person can always find time to do things,” he said.
Mr Bell has dedicated his life to his family, career and voluntary work.
“It would be better if I was turning 60 but I'm lucky, I've had a pretty fortunate life,” he said.
“You have a few setbacks, but what is a disaster today is history tomorrow.”
Mr Bell will celebrate his birthday with a family gathering.
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