Peter Philp retires

Peter commenced his employment with CFA on 12 September 1994 in the Corporate Communications department, now known as Public Affairs.

Peter’s background was quite diverse as a journalist, broadcaster, producer, feature writer and editor. From completing special assignments with World Vision in Brazil to winning awards for best stories on social justice, Peter certainly had the right credentials.

Initially, Peter’s role with CFA was just as diverse. He was the first point of contact for the media and built a strong working relationship with ABC and other media across Victoria.

Peter was also editor of Brigade magazine and he instigated “Smoko” featuring many of CFA’s stalwarts.

Peter is certainly not one who is lost for words and is a wealth of information, especially about his experiences from his early days in radio. Peter often recollected on those days and, in fact, set up a radio show in restaurants and venues which reflected exactly that.

Peter met his wife, Nain, through radio and both she and one of his sons assisted him with the show doing voice overs and audio visuals. Peter was a sight for sore eyes using pots and pans tied to his head to make sounds effects. It was this side of Peter that won over many CFA members.

In his role as editor of Brigade Peter met some wonderful people and his “Smoko” articles reflected that. Peter has also trained many CFA members as media officers and has always promoted the need for media understanding across CFA.

The Oxford Dictionary describes the word “retire” - to withdraw, go away, retreat, seek seclusion. With his love of family, his home in Fish Creek, theatre, reading, music and a passion for the Richmond Tigers – Peter will be anything but retired.

Congratulations and best of luck from all your friends at CFA.