At 71, Bomaderry man Colin Condon recently celebrated his 50th year with Roads and Maritime Services.
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A grader operator, described by his colleagues as a gentleman, he has seen many changes in the local community and his organisation.
Mr Condon started work on April 8, 1964 at 20, earning £17 a fortnight, a sum he was more than happy with.
He recalled the work on the old Nowra Bridge where barriers were put in place for three months and traffic was made to flow in one lane using a give way sign.
It was a method Mr Condon could not see happening today.
From using the old Adams grader to his favourite model – the 1980 John Deere – Mr Condon has
seen it all.
He said the new equipment was “like a spaceship”.
Despite his obvious passion for work, Mr Condon said he didn’t think a 51st anniversary was coming up.
Mr Condon thanked his wife of 20 years, Beverly, for her support and love, which he said got him through each day.
“It did not matter if I was up at 5am, she would have had breakfast served for me,” he said.
“I would be lost without her.”
Now with 50 years’ experience and memories, the couple have plans to travel around Western Australia.
When asked if he had any regrets working for such a long time, Mr Condon said he always loved it.
“If you like what you are doing, stay – if not, quit,” he said.
