Stephen Kip is being recognised for his work in the construction industry with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
The Geelong man has had construction roles, including as an Australian Building Codes Board member and Institution of Engineers (Australia) fellow.
He has also worked as a Department of Health and Human Services consultant fire safety engineer and a member of the Fire Research Group.
Mr Kip said the OAM was a “huge shock and surprise” and that he felt the honour was more for his family than for him.
“I think the building industry is a great career for anybody who wants to work hard and have an interesting and very varied career, really,” he said.
“I first went on building sites as a 12 year old in the school holidays. So, it’s part of our vocation and family, and I did my apprenticeship with my father.
“I’m a first-generation Australian. My family, grandparents, father and uncles came here from Holland after the Second World War, and they were all builders.
“I’ve got uncles who are building inspectors and other uncles who are builders, cousins who’ve worked in the industry, and nephews who are carpenters and builders now. My son is also a cabinet-maker in the building industry”
By Jena Carr
