Thursday, 7 April 2022

Glenn O’Donnell

Ms WARD (Eltham) (09:55): Today I remember Glenn O’Donnell ESM. After Glenn’s short battle with cancer our community has lost an exceptionally kind and gentle man. Glenn spent most of his life in the Diamond Valley becoming an integral and important part of our community, particularly through his involvement with our SES. For 34 years Glenn was a dedicated volunteer with the SES. His exceptional service was recognised in 2017 when he was awarded the Emergency Services Medal. Glenn was the unit controller of Nillumbik for the last 18 years, spending a fair bit of that time on the phone or in catch-ups with Steve Herbert, the former member for Eltham, and then me, always gently and persistently advocating for the SES. Glenn had many roles at our SES. He was deputy controller for 10 years as well as team leader, crew leader, rescue officer and training officer.

I remember Steve talking to me about all the work Glenn and he undertook to take the VICSES Nillumbik unit out of the rickety green shed with the portaloo to the former Eltham bowls clubrooms. It took some time, but they managed to procure a terrific spot for the SES. Once in, the work did not stop. In addition to applying for grants for more equipment and vehicles the site was transformed into a modern facility thanks to Glenn’s advocacy and the support of the state government and the Shire of Nillumbik.

The horrific fires of the 2009 summer will never be forgotten, nor will Glenn’s support of those who needed it most in those dark days. His support extended to taking annual leave from work as soon as his volunteer leave ended so that he could continue to help coordinate three VICSES relief centres. It was moving yesterday at Glenn’s funeral to not only hear from his friends from VICSES but also from many friends from Australia Post, who had so much regard, respect and love for their workmate. There was a common theme from everyone who spoke: Glenn’s kindness. My staff and I enjoyed working with Glenn over the years. Thank you, Glenn, for all you gave us.