Aaron Violi (Casey, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I wish to express my condolences to the family and fellow volunteers of Leonie Turner, long-time CFA captain of the Hoddles Creeks Fire Brigade. Leonie's sudden passing in July this year has left a hole in the Hoddles Creek and wider Yarra Valley community.

Leonie has been described as a calm and caring leader—but far from a pushover—who led the brigade with great strength during times of disaster, and she saw her fair share of them. She received the National Emergency Medal in 2014 and, again, this year for her service at significant fire events across Victoria throughout the past 10 years. She also received the CFA life membership, for 30 years of service, this year.

Her CFA involvement began back in 1992 with the Yarra Junction Fire Brigade, before moving over to Hoddles Creek years later. She was also a dedicated member of the AV Yarra Junction Ambulance Auxiliary, who helped fundraise and worked hard for a new station in the Upper Yarra. Leonie set up the Hoddles Creek emergency catering crew, which provides food and refreshments to CFA, police, SES and emergency personnel when they are out on the front line. She believed in the next generation of firefighters, having led the junior member program for the entire Yarra Valley, with many of those juniors now holding senior roles. She leaves a legacy in our community that will never be forgotten. Vale, Leonie Turner.