This Friday, 18 July marks the end of a chapter in life for Keith Ross, and the beginning of a new and exciting one.
Keith, who is currently employed as a Regional Finance Officer (Brigades) within Barwon South West Region is retiring to take to the open road in his caravan with wife Allison.
At a special morning tea held in District 6 on Wednesday 9 July, Keith was joined by both staff and volunteers, along with Allison, to reminisce about his time as a CFA employee and all that he has achieved in his time.
Keith began his CFA career in 1999 as a casual instructor in the former Barwon Corangamite Area, before joining the full time staff as a Project Officer within the Training Department. Keith was responsible for coordinating training for Brigades for Districts 6 and 7. It was through this role that Keith formed long lasting relationships and friendships with volunteer training officers and assessors.
In 2008, Keith moved on from his role in the training department, to take on the Area Finance Officer (Brigades) within Barwon South West. This role has seen Keith travel widely across the 2 Districts, providing financial advice to Brigade treasurers and secretaries. This was an easy transition for Keith, having spent over 30 years working for the Commonwealth Bank before joining CFA.
Wildfire Instructor Mike Evans thanked Keith for his fantastic work in the training coordinator role, for being pivotal in the support and implementation of a number of training programs within the Districts over his time. His approach of making things easier for volunteers has always been well received and appreciated. Mike also told a tall tale or two of some of Keith’s mishaps over the years!
Current and former Group training officers and assessors, Brian Ritchie and Trevor Smith also thanked Keith for his support, expertise and friendship both the training coordinator role, and in his volunteer capacity.
Keith is also a member of the Grovedale Fire Brigade, having been a member since 1976 and has served as Secretary, 4th Lieutenant, 1st Lieutenant and Captain. He is also the current Group Officer for Geelong Group, so Keith’s involvement with CFA is sure to continue beyond his tenure with Barwon South West.
A final farewell morning tea for Keith will be held at District 7 Headquarters on Friday 18 July at 10am.
Author: Libby Symons