Long-serving SES member awarded inaugural Life Membership

THE inaugural Heathcote SES Unit Life Membership was awarded to Steve Johnson last Sunday.

Three other unit members were also recognised for their long service and commitment.

“The VICSES Unit Life Membership can be awarded to a member who has given active and significant service,” said SES member Sally Duncan.

“Steve joined the McIvor Unit, now Heathcote, in response to a newspaper article identifying that there was a need for the Service within the community.

“He was one of the founding members and was quickly identified as an obvious leadership candidate, going on to hold key leadership positions within the unit for most of his over 35 years of service.

“The first vehicle, an old Bedford truck, was housed at Steve’s workshop for many months, while undergoing the fit-out required to become the very first rescue truck for Heathcote.

“Steve quickly became integral to every aspect of the Unit, excelling in road crash rescue techniques.

“His natural skills and calm head were as significant back in the early days as his experience is today.

“Steve was instrumental in raising funding for a local headquarters, and then the required design, construction, fit out and membership expansion needed for a fully functional Unit.

“Steve also encouraged and contributed to many community events, and as Heathcote grew so too did the membership at the SES.”

Ms Duncan said Mr Johnson is a very quiet, humble man.

“He does not seek recognition but always goes about each job with a sense of calm and a self-assuredness bringing confidence to all of those who work with him.

“He is a natural leader and teaches at every opportunity.

“Having been a member pretty much since day one, Stephen Johnson, without question, has made the biggest contribution to the success of Heathcote SES.

“He has helped in the development of every member and has played a very present role in saving the lives and property of people from within and without our community.”

Mark Pitt received an VICSES Long Service Award for 20 years’ service and Sally Duncan for 10 years.

Mr Pitt also received a National Medal for 15 years’ service.

George Dimech received his 1st clasp for 25 years’ service and Steve Johnson his 2nd clasp for 35 years’ service.

Ms Duncan thanked the RSL for the use of the hall for the awards presentation and the Heathcote Film Festival for providing the equipment for the visual presentation.