On Australia Day, Kerran Webb (affectionately known as “Poppy”) received a Maldon & District Life Membership for outstanding service to the community.
When asked, Kerran said he was completely surprised and very honoured to have received the award – although he said with a huge grin “wasn’t quite sure about all the ‘deviates’ giving out all his info!” Riding his gopher on the way to the festivities he almost didn’t make it, getting stuck on the kerb on the way in – but many hands make light work and he was soon on his way again.
Kerran said he liked the way the event was run by the President Greg Ginger, MC Graham Pitts & Committee. The entertainment was enjoyable, it was a lovely atmosphere and all was very professionally run. He gave a wonderful speech which touched all there. “Brought the house down” to quote one source.
We asked Kerran why he first joined the CFA. “When we first came to this district, we were managing a property at Baringhup. I was well aware of the fire risk in the area, and that it would be likely that at some time we would need the help of the CFA. In turn, I wanted to help them, and our neighbours, the community.” This sense of community service has carried on down through his whole family as seen in the citation, with not only fireground work but administrative and radio work by wife Reba who for many years ran every radio communication from their home until VicFire…and they are still Remote One! Kerran’s health these days prevents him from active duty but his home is still HQ for a constant stream of visitors, asking his thoughts, advice and simply having a laugh and talking of times past, present and lessons to be learnt.
Kerran "Poppy" Webb, Living Legend Maldon & District, we salute you.
Author: District 2 News