COMMUNITY SERVICE OF CFA’S STAN BROWN HONOURED

Independent Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed has paid tribute to the long-standing service of one of north-east Victoria’s most respected citizens.

Speaking in parliament, Ms Sheed commended the community work of Yielima’s Stan Brown, a former local councillor, avid sportsman and life member of the Country Fire Authority, who passed away in March at the age of 102.

Using her member’s statement to honour his impressive contribution to his community, Ms Sheed described Mr Brown as “one of nature’s gentlemen”. 

A full version of Ms Sheed’s speech is included below.

 

Stan Brown was one of nature’s gentlemen and his contribution to his community makes him very worthy of mention today.

Born in 1914, Stan lived a long and fruitful life at Yielima, near Nathalia, close to his much loved Barmah Forest and Murray River.

He and his wife Vera, during their 64 years of marriage raised four children and enjoyed a large extended family.

He was a life member of the Yalca-Yielima Fire Brigade serving for over 80 years and was the Communications Officer up to the time of his death in March this year at the age of 102.

He was a local councilor for many years and a life member of many community organisations.

He was also a keen sportsman. He played cricket all his life and he played it well.

One of Stan’s much told stories was of meeting Sir Donald Bradman.

Stan was 16 years old and was counselled by Sir Donald against the perils of cigarettes and public houses.

It was a warning he heeded as, in Stan’s words, “when Bradman tells you something, it makes a big impression”.

In delivering his grandfather’s eulogy, his grandson said: “ He had many words of advice for us over the years, one being, ‘Always be kind to everyone and everything and you will be richly rewarded’; and the other, ‘If your work interferes with your sport, get a new job’.”

Stan Brown enjoyed a very full life contributing to his family and community and in doing so achieved the great respect of his own community to whom he gave so much.

 

Ends

Media contact

Riahn Smith 0419 138 978│riahn.smith@parliament.vic.gov.au

 

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