Thursday, 6 February 2020

Bill Slade

Ms CRUGNALE (Bass) (09:54): I stand to honour Bill Slade, who died on the fireground north of Omeo on 11 January. A highly skilled and experienced firefighter with 40 years of service with Parks Victoria, he was relied upon for his expertise and trusted judgement. He was the glue that bound his Wonthaggi team together. He brought out their best in an emergency, in nature, in fires and in life. He excelled in mentoring young firefighters. Bill was a revered life member and former player at Killy Bass footy club. He was so proud of his family: wife, Carol, and children, Ethan and Stephanie.

Tributes have flooded in in these past few difficult weeks: mighty work ethic, ripper bloke, always lending a hand. Colleagues recall the shirt tucked half in, half out, the wonky glasses matching his wonky finger and a set of 200 keys dancing on a piece of red rope. His demeanour was happy, gentle. When someone was having a rough day, they would be teamed with Bill for some R and R. Bill just could not sit still, unless of course the cricket was on the telly.

The achievements were many: the eradication of foxes on Phillip Island, manning controlled burns in parks and reserves, and monitoring and revegetating our precious Bass coastline. A testament to his service was the crowd of 2000 people at his funeral and the sea of green uniforms in the guard of honour that followed. My sincerest condolences to Bill’s family, his colleagues, his friends and all who loved him and walked beside him.