Gold star for 25 years at Central ComCen

Central Comcen Senior Dispatcher, Toni David, received her Gold Star at an awards ceremony last week.

Toni has been with us since December 1989 with a service break between 1998 and 2003. Throughout that time she has been on Brown Watch. Toni described the Gold Star ceremony as ‘a lovely occasion’.

“On 3 November 2020, I was lucky enough to have a Gold Star morning tea held for me. I don’t know where the years have gone – after starting at the Wellington Control Room behind City Fire Station in 1989 and having a few years off – and rejoining the current Communications Centre at the Wellington Central Police Station in 2003.

“It was a lovely occasion shared by my colleagues, family members and firefighter crews – many of whom I have known for over 30 years.

“I have certainly enjoyed my years within the fire service environment and will continue to for at least a few more years.”

Toni’s shift manager, Mike Wanoa, said Toni ‘is always very easy to work with’.

“She is a good team member and always there to help. The Watch shares a happy work environment and much of that is credited to Toni and her attitude.

“I am proud to have worked with Toni and congratulate her on this most important milestone.”

Central ComCen Operations Manager Andrew Tollison said Toni has a very crisp and clear radio voice which is valuable in her role as it means she is easily understood.

“We have shared lots of laughs and meals with Toni over the years and she is one of the few remaining staff who worked in the old control room prior to co-locating with Police in the current Comcen back in July 1998.” 

Toni was presented with her Gold Star by Sandy Lawson from the United Fire Brigades Association. National Manager, Response Capability Paul Turner presented Toni with a pounamu on behalf of the Fire and Emergency Board.