She was one of the first women elected to Kyneton Shire Council and she is now putting a new stamp on history as Kyneton’s latest recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
Yesterday that honour went to Ronda Walker for her service to the community and advocacy for women.
The former school teacher librarian has shared her passions in serving others through Friends of the Kyneton Museum, Kyneton Fire Brigade and the Zonta Club of Kyneton.
Ronda was Kyneton’s charter president from 1994 to 1996 and has been a dedicated member since, taking on the president role for a second time from 2012-14.
She said one of Kyneton Zonta group’s biggest highlights has been the International Women’s Day dinner that celebrates women of all ages and backgrounds and has about 200 guests annually.
Strong leadership skills saw Ronda assume many roles for Zonta at international and district levels.
As a result, Ronda has helped to change the lives of many and formed some strong friendships across Australia and world-wide in the process.
“Whether I was with Zonta or the fire brigade, it has always been a part of a team,” Ronda said.
“Family has been really important too and has allowed me to do these things.”
The Walker family has put in enormously as strong support for the Kyneton Fire Brigade. Husband Roger has been actively involved as Kyneton Group Officer for 25 years and their son has taken on an operations officer role with CFA.
Behind the radio and communications, since 1974, was Ronda and her duties extended far beyond that when she became brigade secretary (2008-2010) and later Kyneton Brigade chair (2012-2016).
She has been the recipient of National Emergency Medal for efforts during the 2009 Victorian Bushfires and National Medal for long service with two clasps.
Ronda shows no sign of slowing yet as a current member of the Friends of Kyneton Museum where she has served as secretary (2000-2007) and president (2007-2014).
Her interest in local history has also seen her write comprehensive books for the Kyneton Golf Club and Kyneton Primary School’s 150th celebration.
