By REBECCA BILLS
SHE’S the smiling face that greets parents and students as they cross the road on their way to school each morning.
And earlier this month she celebrated 25 years as the crossing supervisor at Ferny Creek Primary School.
Diane Garsend made the move to Ferny Creek from a city lifestyle in Balwyn 25 years ago.
“I started on 1 July 1980, I had just made the move and was looking for a part-time job,” she said.
“A neighbour in the area who had done the job before me asked me if I would give it a go – so I did.
“It was the middle of winter and I thought I’d give it a go for one term and it really was a terrible time to start but I just loved all the staff and the kids so I kept going.”
The 60-year-old said she felt welcomed into the school community as soon as she started working at the crossing.
“I’m treated with such respect by all and everybody is just so friendly,” she said.
“I feel like I’m doing something worthwhile and giving the kids not only road safety but lessons in honesty and manners.”
When asked how she deals with the bitterly cold Ferny Creek weather she said: “I don’t know.”
“You just become a part of it, you have to live with nature – I’m a firm believer in that,” she said.
“When I’m on the crossing I get to observe nature in such a beautiful part of the world, I’m really lucky.”
Ms Garsend said she is now helping former students’ children to cross the road.
“It’s an honour, I love seeing second generations come over the crossing,” she said.
“I never had any children of my own so I see each student as my family.”
Principal Matthew Coyle said his 10 years at the school has taught him what a great asset Ms Garsend is.
“We all call her the legendary Diane,” he said.
“She makes it her mission every year to know every child and parent by name and even when their birthdays are.
“She is very generous with her time at the school and is always out there at the crossing with a smile – rain, hail or shine.”
Earlier this month each student wrote a message for a special assembly to celebrate Ms Garsend’s 25 years at the crossing.
