Three long-serving East Gippsland Water employees who dedicated a combined 80 years to supporting water services in the Mallacoota region have been recognised in a recent special retirement celebration.
Hans Van Der Sant (40 years), Daniel Marsden (21 years) and Les Fonay (19 years) have each retired within the past 12 months, marking the end of decades of service to East Gippsland Water and the Mallacoota community.
The trio were recently brought together for a rare and meaningful occasion, celebrating their significant contributions to one of Victoria’s most remote and unique townships.
Hans’ service is deeply woven into the history of water services in Mallacoota.
He was the township’s first paid water employee, appointed prior to the formation of East Gippsland Water when services were managed by the Mallacoota Waterworks Trust, established in 1967.
Through major water sector reforms, including the abolition of the Trust in 1983, the transition to the Mallacoota Water Board and subsequent amalgamations in the 1990s, Hans provided continuity, local knowledge and leadership during times of change.
Working in Mallacoota has presented both rewards and challenges.
Reflecting on their careers, all three men identified natural disasters, including floods and bushfires, as the most significant challenges they faced.
These challenges were particularly evident during the 2019–2020 bushfires, when Mallacoota was completely isolated.
Hans, Daniel and Les played critical roles during the emergency and throughout the extensive recovery effort. Notably, Hans returned from leave via Canberra before travelling by boat from Eden to support the community.
East Gippsland Water General Manager Service Delivery Hamish Reid said the three retirees had made an extraordinary contribution to both the organisation and the Mallacoota community.
“Hans, Daniel and Les represent the very best of regional service — dedication, resilience and a deep connection to community,” Mr Reid said.
“Their combined 80 years of service has helped shape water services in Mallacoota and ensured the community has been supported through both everyday operations and some of its most challenging moments.
“We are incredibly grateful for their commitment and the legacy they leave behind.”
Despite the challenges, each spoke fondly of their time at East Gippsland Water, highlighting strong teamwork, camaraderie and pride in delivering essential services to the community.
Retirement has seen each embark on new pursuits.
Hans has been travelling, Les is enjoying fishing and gold prospecting and Daniel is now focused on running his boat hire business.
The celebration was fittingly held overlooking the Mallacoota Inlet at Daniel’s business with staff travelling from across the region to attend.
Each retiree was presented with a unique handcrafted memento created by East Gippsland Water Reuse Operator Tim Irish.
Made from locally sourced Yertchuk timber, each polished piece features a brass water meter and engraved plaque.
East Gippsland Water Manager Network Operations Steve Mowat presented the awards, followed by a traditional wood-fired barbecue shared among colleagues in a relaxed and scenic setting.
Hans, Daniel and Les leave behind a legacy of resilience, dedication and strong community connection.
Their contributions to East Gippsland Water and the Mallacoota community will be remembered for many years to come.
