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The CFA community is mourning the loss of a dedicated and influential member, Roger Walker AFSM, a man whose name is imbedded in both the history of Kyneton Fire Brigade and the wider Coliban Group.
Roger’s journey with CFA began in 1961 and what followed was more than sixty years of unwavering service to his community, marked by leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to protecting lives and property.
Over the decades, Roger held a range of roles including Kyneton Group Officer, Kyneton Brigade Captain, Kyneton Fire Brigade Chairman, CFA Board Member, Asset Manager, Strike Team Leader, Incident Controller, Crew Leader, and Operations Officer within Incident Management Teams.
Roger played a critical role in many of Victoria’s most significant emergencies, including the Western District Fires (1977), Ash Wednesday (1982), Maryborough (1985), Spring Hill (1998), the Victorian High Country Fires (2006), Black Saturday (2009), and the Lancefield Fire (2015).
Assistant Chief Fire Officer for District 02, Archie Conroy, said his steady presence and thoughtful leadership shaped the culture and capability of Kyneton Fire Brigade and the Coliban Group for more than half a century.
“Whether on the fireground or coordinating efforts from the Incident Control Centre, Roger was known for his calm approach, deep experience, and unwavering commitment to the safety of his community,” he said.
His impact extended far beyond emergency response, recognising the need for a safer and more functional station to support a growing and modernising brigade, Roger and his wife, Ronda, championed the redevelopment of Kyneton Fire Station.
Completed in 2016, the extension delivered improved safety, dedicated facilities for female firefighters, increased storage, and a purpose-built hazmat trailer area.
Roger also played a pivotal role in shaping Kyneton’s members, instilling professionalism, teamwork, and discipline in every member he trained.
His exceptional service was recognised with some of the highest honours available within the fire services, including the Australian Fire Service Medal (1989), National Medal with 4 Clasps (2018), 60 Year Service Medal (2021), National Emergency Medal (2014), Brigade Life Membership (1998), and CFA Life Membership (2017).
Even after decades of service, Roger continued working on both the front line and in leadership roles.
“He was known for his professionalism, good conduct, and the example he set for others always encouraging members to train, improve, and strive to be their best,” said Archie.
“Roger’s legacy is profound and his influence will continue to be felt across the brigade, across CFA, and throughout the Kyneton community he served so faithfully.
“His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to guide and inspire generations of CFA members.”