Afton was born in Hamilton and grew up as the youngest of three siblings. His primary school years were spent at the former Kent Road Primary School, he then attended Hamilton High School which amalgamated with Hamilton Technical school (during his final year) to become what we now know as Baimbridge College.
Afton's parents were both highly involved in the community delivering meals on wheels, being involved in tourism, the Ansett Museum and various other community-based volunteer organisations. Afton's father was a councillor of Hamilton City Council for many years and was Mayor in the bicentennial year of 1988, the years before the amalgamation of the Victorian Councils and Shires.
Afton began his hospitality career as an apprentice chef and worked in various local establishments over a 24 year period. Owning a café and catering business in the local CBD towards the end of his hospitality journey was a highlight, with the support of his wife and raising a young family. During that time as business owners they were supported by our wonderful community and a constant stream of tourists alike. Afton has always felt very connected to the Shire and its beautiful surroundings.
Afton feels it is time to give back to the community and Shire, the district that he loves and that has supported him through his life. Afton's wife is employed at the local hospital and their sons are both still in Hamilton, one in the farming industry and another about to start his own journey in hospitality as an apprentice chef (their own version of farm to plate in the making!).
Afton is looking forward to working with the Shire residents over the next four years to make an even stronger, well informed, connected and more economically viable community.