Last Saturday saw the official opening of the Eltham Fire Station, a process which has been 90 years in the making for the Eltham Brigade.
Story by Paul Elso
Founded on 24 February 1926, the Eltham Brigade has had six former sites throughout Eltham starting with the housing of the brigade hose reel at then Captain Walter Warren’s home in Pryor Street. Subsequently, sites in Luck Street, Henry Street and Main Road have been home to the brigade, but with the brigade growing and the needs of the community not able to be met by the old station, a new site has been needed for some time.
With the support of the State Government, the properties required for this station were purchased in 2012, the foundations laid in 2014 and the brigade was operationally able to move in to the new station in December 2015.
The opening event was many months in the planning and a team of both volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to deliver a fantastic event attended by over 175 guests.
The proceedings were opened by Secretary Evan Thomas who was MC for the day and we then received a Welcome to Country from a local Wurundjeri Elder.
The Chair of the CFA Board, Greg Smith AM then addressed the brigade before local member Vicki Ward MP officially opened the station.
Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley PSM then addressed the attendees also, discussing the importance of the service the Eltham Brigade provides the community and commending the brigade on their transition to the new station, showcasing a model for successful integration between staff and volunteers working together for the benefit of the local community.
The unveiling of the newly mounted fire bell at the front of the station was made by Margaret Thomas, daughter of ex-captain Alan Warren, before the special awards presentations took place.
The brigade saw the presentation of a National Emergency Medal to SSO M Doriean and National Medals for Service to SSO M Doriean, SO G Bosua, LFF P Carswell, LFF D Blyth and FF B Dalton.
Of special note however was the presentation of a 40 year service medal to Life Member FF Clem Egan who’s dedication was recognised appropriately.
Thanks for assistance in logistics for the day to Nillumbik SES, the Salvation Army who catered for the 175 guests in attendance and to Plenty Fire Brigade for stepping up as primary response to Eltham for the afternoon.
Author: CFA Media