SES operations manager Chris Brockwell, Colin Croxford, Benalla unit controller Ailsa McMillian and acting deputy chief officer Ray Jasper. Photo: Rene Martens.
In 1977 Benalla’s Colin Croxford, aged 18, signed up to a new SES unit being set up in the Rose City.
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Little did he know that some 48 years later, he would still be a part of the Benalla SES.
On Wednesday, August 6 the Benalla unit was joined by regional members for a special presentation.
Colin was officially honoured with an SES life membership.
He said it felt really nice to be honoured by an organisation he loved so much.
“It was a pretty special moment for me,” he said.
“For all the years I’ve been in SES, it’s something to show my dedication. It’s brilliant.”
Colin said that while getting the award was nice, the highlight of the evening was having all the members and regional members there.
“I’m still a big part of the organisation,” he said.
“But, while I haven’t stepped back yet, I have slowed down a bit.”
He said the past 48 years had been a good journey.
The Benalla SES unit celebrated Colin Croxford’s 48 years of service, and life membership award on Wednesday, August 6. Photo: Rene Martens.
“Time flies,” he said.
“It doesn’t seem that long. I joined during its initial growth period. I was there when the unit was being formed and activated.
“It’s very pleasing to see how it’s grown and the service that it gives back to the community.”
During his time with SES Colin has seen it all, from car wrecks and big storms to fires and several significant flooding incidents.
He was also unit controller for 22 years.
“Benalla does keep us busy,” he said.
Benalla SES unit life member Colin Croxford. Photo: Rene Martens.
“I’ve also gone off and done deployments in other areas during things like floods.
“That’s part of the reason I got the life membership because SES is all about dedication and service.”
Colin said there were lots of reasons to join SES.
“The best bit is the camaraderie, helping people and assisting new members,” he said.
“Plus, you get a lot of training. I’ve had numerous training courses where I’ve learnt stuff I can take into my private life.”
That training ranges from four-wheel drive courses to learning leadership and management skills.
“I’ve gained a lot out of it,” he said.
Colin said he’d like to thank the Benalla unit for supporting him over the years.
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