In short:
Wyndham SES and Point Cook SES are mourning the passing of Laurie Russell ESM, a founding member of both units who served as Wyndham Unit Controller for more than 30 years. Laurie was also the first Unit Controller of Point Cook SES and contributed to the CFA and a range of community initiatives across Melbourne’s west.
Wyndham Advertiser
Decades of selfless service
Two SES units in Melbourne’s west are mourning the passing of Laurie Russell ESM, a founding member of both Wyndham SES and Point Cook SES.
The Point Cook SES Unit said it was “deeply saddened” to acknowledge Laurie’s passing, describing him as “a founding member and the first Unit Controller of the Point Cook SES Unit.”
“His vision, determination, and advocacy were instrumental in bringing the unit to life and setting the foundation for what it has become today,” Point Cook SES said.
Laurie’s connection to the SES began in Wyndham, where he was a founding member of the unit and served as Wyndham Unit Controller for more than 30 years. He later helped establish the Wyndham West unit before going on to found Point Cook SES.
Wyndham SES said Laurie was “a true part of the unit’s history, heart, and identity.”
“His leadership, commitment, and steady presence helped shape the unit into what it is today,” the Wyndham SES statement said.
Beyond the SES, Laurie’s service extended across the broader emergency services sector. According to Point Cook SES, he made significant contributions to the CFA and a range of community initiatives, with a commitment to service that “was unwavering, always focused on supporting others and putting the needs of the community first.”
For members of Point Cook SES, Laurie’s influence reached well beyond his formal leadership roles.
“Laurie was more than a leader. He was a mentor, a friend, and at times a father figure — someone who always made time for a conversation, offered guidance when it was needed most, and stood beside his team through both challenges and successes,” Point Cook SES said.
The unit said his presence “helped shape not only the unit, but many of us as individuals, leaving a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.”
Wyndham SES echoed the sentiment, saying his legacy lives on “in the units he helped build, the people he mentored, and the countless lives impacted by the service he gave so selflessly.”
Point Cook SES said his legacy continues to shape the unit today.
“Laurie’s legacy lives on through the culture, values, and spirit of service that continue within the Point Cook SES Unit today,” the statement said.
Both units extended their condolences to Laurie’s family, friends, and all those who served alongside him.
“Rest easy, Laurie. Your service, guidance, and legacy will not be forgotten,” Wyndham SES said.
