Pioneer salute

By Monique Ebrington
PIONEER timber workers who have died on the job and those in the industry who have passed away will be remembered in the first annual Heritage Pioneer Memorial.
Photos, stories and memorabilia are needed to fill the memorial that will be held at the Heritage Pioneer, in Woori Yallock on Saturday 17 October from 11am onwards.
The idea came about when East Warburton resident Pat Ingram wanted to hold a memorial service on that weekend to celebrate the life of her husband Phillip Dickson.
Mr Dickson was killed in a workplace incident at the Powelltown Sawmill late last year.
Ms Ingram said she has been busy since the memorial evolved to be a day of remembrance for all pioneers, sawmillers and those who have been involved in the industry and passed away.
“It would have been Phillip’s 60th birthday on Sunday 18 October,” Ms Ingram said.
“He was killed two weeks before he turned 59. I would have had something on the day, no matter what, and I think that it’s good that it’s now for all sawmillers,”
“I’ve been going around the valley collecting photos, stories and bits and pieces from people,”
“So far I’ve collected 30 photos of old sawmillers and people who have worked in the industry and who have now passed away.”
To include a loved one who has passed away in the Heritage Pioneer Memorial phone Sandra Heritage on 9800 3000.