Hopkins Curdies Group members and family & friends of John, joined on 28th October, 2012 to celebrate the presentation of John’s National Medal.
CFA Board member, Don Robertson, presented John with his medal, acknowledging his outstanding service over more than 40 years, to Cudgee Brigade, Hopkins Curdies Group, CFA District 5, and Barwon South West Region.
John began his CFA career with Cudgee RFB in 1969. He served in all roles on the Management Team, including Secretary and most recently 12 years as Captain.
In supporting the Hopkins Curdies Group, John continued to take on leadership roles, including two stints as Group Secretary (1976-1998 & 2006-2010). John is currently DGO1 for the Group.
John has also been involved in many local campaigns within District 5, and has participated in numerous Strike Teams over the years. In support of CFA Volunteers, John has been a long-term VFBV delegate, raising issues on behalf of local members.
In acknowledging John’s contribution to the Group, former Group Officer Kelvin Boyle, highlighted John’s co-ordination of the fundraising campaign for the Group FVC, which was eventually purchased late in 2010. Operations Officer Henry Barton also shared some anecdotes of his experiences working with John through the years.
In response, John thanked his family and the CFA Community for their friendship and support during his long and dedicated service.
John then presented Group Officer Gary Hayes with Volume 1 of the History of the Hopkins Curdies Group, which includes photos, documents and newspaper articles relating to the Group, collected over many years by John, and now collated and displayed in this comprehensive publication. John is currently continuing the task with Volume 2 well underway.
Group Officer Gary Hayes thanked John for his commitment, and commended him on the production of the History Folder. He presented John with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Hopkins Curdies Group, and congratulated him on his Awards.
A very pleasant social afternoon was enjoyed by all present, and congratulations to John on an Award so richly deserved.