Bob Farr never thinks twice about donning his Sir Topham Hat persona for the sake of the children at the Kids Fun Run with Thomas every year. 21101
By Tania Martin
BOB Farr epitomises what it is to be a volunteer.
For the past 10 years Mr Farr has been known as the station master who is always ready to offer a helping hand.
The dedicated Puffing Billy volunteer and Gembrook man has been rewarded for his work with the 2008 Stan Henwood Award.
The award was one of the features of the recent Shire of Cardinia annual grants night which was held on 24 July.
Shire CEO Garry McQuillan said Mr Farr was one of Gembrook’s most valued residents.
Mr McQuillan said Mr Farr had been described by many as reliable and conscientious.
“Bob has a cheerful nature, is a willing participant and his ability to offer leadership to the community makes his a fitting recipient of the Stan Henwood Award.
Mr Farr was recognised for his hard work and dedication to the community.
Some people may look at his long list of achievements and wonder where Mr Farr finds the time to fit it all in.
Not only does Mr Farr volunteer his time to Puffing Billy but also takes on the persona of Sir Topham Hat at the Kids Fun Run with Thomas every year.
He is also known for his work on committees such as the Friends of Gembrook Park, the Anglican Men’s Society, Toastmasters International, the Nunawading Piepband, Corps of Commissionaires and the Gembrook Township Committee.
Mr Farr has been the station master at Gembrook station since it reopened in 1998 and is loved by all.
Puffing Billy CEO Eamonn Seddon said Mr Farr was an extremely dedicated volunteer.
Mr Seddon said in his 10 years as station master, Mr Farr has missed few days on the job.
“You can count on one hand the number of days Mr Farr has not been in attendance,” he said.
“We can always rely on Bob to have the fire burning in the Gembrook station building, awaiting the arrival of passengers on chilly winter days.
Mr Seddon accepted the award on Bob’s behalf as he is currently visiting family in Ireland.
“It was an honour to accept this on Bob’s behalf and I look forward to presenting it to him on his return to Gembrook,” he said.
Mr Farr is expected to return later this month.
