SEASONED lollipop man Geoff Watson was reluctant at first to take on the role when his daughter brought home the application form under principal's orders.

But 30 years on and Mr Watson hasn't looked back.

This week, Ipswich Central State School community thanked the region's longest serving crossing supervisor at a special assembly.

Despite his successful run and love of the job, it took some convincing for Mr Watson to agree with the school's principal and apply for the job.

"I didn't really want to do it. But once I got down there it was all right. I didn't want to look like a silly old fool holding a lollipop sign," he said.

Over the years he has helped generations of students across Griffith Rd.

"I've made lifelong friends out of it and see the kids - they grow up and go to high school and the next thing they are driving past me and tooting their horns."

The job had been a positive experience, Mr Watson said.

"It's a really rewarding job. People don't think about that.

"They look like a bloke and go 'stop' on the road but it's more involved than that. If something happens to the kids, I'm responsible."

Mr Watson was congratulated by State Government ministers Scott Emerson and John Paul Langbroek and Ipswich MP Ian Berry.

"It was great to congratulate Geoffrey Watson at Ipswich Central State School. Since 1984, Mr Watson has played a crucial role in protecting children as they travel to and from school." Mr Emerson said.

"Making the journey to school as safe as possible is part of our strong plan for a brighter future."