Dave and Don celebrate retirement and 81 years service to community

By Simon Ruppert

Jul 11, 2022

Dedicated: DELWP Benalla farewelled long-term employees Dave Donehue and Don Wellington this week. Photo by Contributed

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) in Benalla farewelled two long-term employees this week.

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Dave Donehue and Don Wellington were celebrated for a combined 81 years of service at a special celebration, which saw them receive service awards.

The two have now officially retired from DELWP and are looking forward to the next stage of their respective lives.

A DELWP spokesperson said Mr Donehue joined the then Forest Commission of Victoria in 1978 as a 17-year-old in the state’s western district.

“Later he would relocate to Benalla to manage hardwood and softwood logging in the Strathbogies and Toombullups,” the spokesperson said.

“(After that) he was leader of the Benalla Mobile Fire Support Crew and a Level 2 Operations Officer, responding to major fires across the state.

“More recently he has helped manage Crown land reserves, working closely with local Committees of Management to enhance and protect popular reserves.”

The spokesperson said Mr Wellington joined the department in 1986.

“After roles as a storeman and field crew officer, he spent the last 20 years of his career as a fire lookout observer in the Lurg Fire Tower,” the spokesperson said.

“Mr Donehue and Mr Wellington have made a significant contribution to the department’s fire program over the duration of their careers, helping to keep communities safe.”

Congratulations from everyone at the Benalla Ensign.