Mr Shalders has been a dedicated and passionate reporter for almost four years.

Originally he split his time between Ararat and Stawell, but was soon appointed to the role of sport journalist in Ararat.

"I considered this job a real privilege, you get to meet a lot of great people," he said.

"To be able to share their stories with the rest of the community has been a fantastic and satisfying part of this job."

Mr Shalder's drive and enthusiasm has allowed him to turn his attention away from sport and cover several news events and issues that have shaped the Ararat region.

The community push to re-open the Ararat Outdoor Olympic Swimming Pool ranks as one of the major issues that has dominated Mr Shalder's time at The Ararat Advertiser.

The arrival of hit reality television program The Biggest Loser in town also gave the very approachable journalist an opportunity to branch out.

"Along with the Ten network, we were the leading media outlet for the series that put Ararat in the national spotlight," he said.

"I was lucky enough to have some great exclusives during the 18 month production and airing period."

Mr Shalders also rates the build up to the 2014 State election as an exciting time.

"With two well known local identities throwing their hat in the ring for the seat of Ripon and the then Premier and Opposition Leader promising plenty in exchange for votes, it made for an exciting time for our region."

Mr Shalders has a bright future ahead, commencing as a journalist at The Courier newspaper in Ballarat on Monday.

"You never know what to expect in this job and that is one of the most exciting aspects of the role," he said.

"I am looking forward to new challenges in Ballarat, meeting new people and telling more stories to a new community."

Mr Shalder's colleagues - both past and present, wish him all the best in the future.