It’s music to her ears

By Tania Martin
KAREN Noonan of Ferny Creek is no stranger to leadership and has now been recognised for her years of hard work.
A musician by day and a firefighter by night, Ms Noonan often wonders how she fits it all in.
She has been awarded the Shire of Yarra Ranges Ian de la Rue Community Leadership Award as part of Australia Day celebrations.
Ms Noonan said although it was a big shock to receive the award it was a wonderful feeling to be recognised.
“It’s a lovely feeling to be acknowledged for what I do – not that I do it to be acknowledged,” she said.
“I am very proud to be part and contribute to such a special community.”
Ms Noonan spent 15 years camping and teaching young girls how to be good Girl Guides.
She has also spent countless hours at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council (DRMC) as a conductor.
A music teacher at Ferny Creek Primary School, Ms Noonan is also known for helping to set up the school’s music department.
When she is not playing music Ms Noonan is volunteering with the Sassafras-Ferny Creek fire brigade.
Ms Noonan joined the brigade after the Ash Wednesday bushfires as an inactive member because she was scared to fight fires.
But in 2002 she undertook the training and is now able to go out and face the flames.
Ms Noonan now has no problem facing fires because she said once the training kicks in firefighters know what to do.