FOR more than 11 years, volunteer Ken Stranger has been a part of the Perth Observatory team in Bickley’s Korung National Park and has been recognised as its volunteer of the year.

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) named Mr Stranger for the honour, acknowledging his contributions of more than 35 hours a week, and broad range of skills.

Mr Stranger supports the observatory from governance to finance, ICT troubleshooting and technical maintenance and training.

Mr Stranger said recognition was never the main motivation for him, rather it was the joy of fixing things and helping facilitate room for wonder.

“We’re such an insignificant part on a large rock that’s floating through space and it’s incomprehensible what is out there and what it’s part of,” he said.

“What you can actually see is just awesome… some of the things I have seen are absolutely stunning.

“You always feel a sense of wonder if you’re looking out there… it’s just hard to comprehend.”

Mr Stranger said his start at the observatory remained his strength throughout all this time.

“Whilst I’ve never been heavily involved in astronomy, I had an interest in astronomy and I thought, well maybe this is a place I could come and be of use or learn something,” he said.

“I found out fairly quickly I knew nothing about astronomy and so because of my technical background, I actually fell into a technical role up here which basically involves just fixing things mechanically and electronically.

“There’s a lot of electronics involved which is a passion of mine.

“My biggest reward for what I do is actually taking a problem and fixing it and seeing an end result.”

Perth Observatory tour administrator Matt Woods said the recognition was well deserved.

“Ken keeps all the telescopes running and keeps the place in order through his role of caretaker,” he said.

“Ken and I joined the Volunteer Group in the same intake back in 2014.

“On several occasions, we’ve thought telescopes have died and can’t be fixed.

“Ken has been able work the problem to bring them back to life.

“Even Lazarus would be impressed.

“It’s a big achievement, we’re very lucky to have him and the telescopes are as well.”

Perth Observatory volunteer engagement officer Nadia Maslen said she nominated Mr Stranger because of his dedication to the team.

“(He dedicates) his weekends, his night times,” she said.

“Ken’s contribution underpins everything from Night Sky Tours to our ICT systems.

“His oversight of facilities, technical expertise and ICT support ensures our infrastructure remains safe, compliant and fully operational.”

Ms Maslen also said she appreciated his ability to keep the workplace atmosphere light-hearted while also being able to take work seriously when needed.

“He is funny (and) he can have a joke,” she said.

“There is always some good-natured banter around him, which helps create a warm and enjoyable environment for everyone.

“With me personally, Ken has always been incredibly accommodating (and) no matter how busy he is, he will pause what he is working on to help me with what I need to do my job.

“My first impression of Ken was a softly spoken, gentle giant, and nothing has changed since that day over four years ago.”