Dean di Bona
Here’s an Aussie that came and stayed. After achieving the rank of Captain in the military, Dean di Bona decided to leave Sydney and make his first stop in Waitakere. Here he could pursue his hobbies of tramping and community service, volunteering at the local youth club.
Moving to Martinborough several years ago he began apprentice in the building trade with David Roberie and completing training with Bruce Lovell of B&L Construction. He now has his own company, DEDICO Construction Ltd. You might see his van with the logo I Build 4 U. He joined Master Builders Association to demonstrate his commitment to the higher standard of construction demanded by Wairarapa clients.
Dean is married to Diane Lusk, owner of Peonies here in Martinborough. They continue to be involved in community projects such as founding members of Spring Fling dinner held last year with more events planned soon.
He joined the brigade 7 years ago as a way to use the military training for the benefit of the community. He holds the rank of Senior Fire Fighter.
Dean advises, “There is an emotional cost not only for yourself but also the family of attending emergency call outs. After a particularly difficult emergency, somehow you have to extract yourself out of the situation, to be prepared for the next call and go back to work/family without carrying the stress. The commitment of the partners and family is so important.” But he says he finds most satisfaction in being able to give reassurance to victims of an accident or fire that professional help is taking control of the situation and action is being taken.
