Ian Lowe

Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie)—I'd like to acknowledge and thank Ian Lowe from Cooranbong. Ian is a remarkable man who served 30 years as an SES operator, including a lengthy stint as captain of the SES Cooranbong Unit. Over the years his superiors called on his skills, knowledge, experience and leadership qualities to provide training and guidance to crew members on a weekly basis. He and his crew also undertook additional training provided by Newcastle Police Rescue Squad. Ian has also been heavily involved in the Rural Fire Service, serving as Captain of the Cooranbong Volunteer Bushfire Brigade for 20 years. He also played an active role in the creation of Cooranbong's Fire Station and SES facilities. Now aged 90, Ian remains dedicated to church and community activities and maintains an extensive community network. Until recently he was still cutting and splitting firewood and distributing it to the elderly. Last month I had the privilege of presenting Ian with the Premier's Community Service Award while he was surrounded by his family, friends, colleagues and local police representatives. I congratulate and thank Ian for all he has done for the Lake Macquarie community.