A total of 240 years of CFA service were presented to members of Heyfield Fire Brigade by Acting Operations Manager of District 10 Colin Brown on 2 May 2015.
Brigade members and their families, along with members of the Thomson Group, came together at the Heyfield Bowls Club to celebrate the significant contribution from members of the brigade to both the community and CFA. Sixty people attended the night celebrating the special presentations.
The Heyfield Fire Brigade was first registered on 29 February 1944. The brigade has been involved in many significant events over the years including a heavy involvement in the January 2013 Aberfeldy Fire and the 2014 Hazelwood Mine fire.
Two particularly significant presentations were made. Ronald Lancaster was presented with a 55-year medal and Bob Still a 65-year medal.
Ron is a CFA Life Member and National Medal recipient. He has held many positions in the brigade including Captain, Secretary, Lieutenant and Group Communications Officer and continues to be an active member of the brigade.
Bob is also a CFA Life member and National Medal recipient. After starting with the Maffra Urban Fire Brigade and being a member for 26 years, Bob joined Heyfield in 1976. He has held the position of 1st and 2nd lieutenant and continues to play an active part in the brigade.
Long Service recipients on the night were:
Ryan Johnstone, 3rd Lieutenant – 5 year certificate
Christopher Stevens – 5 year certificate
Rob Morgan, 4th Lieutenant – 10 years
Jannette Stevens – 15 years
Thomas Lord – 15 years
Desmond Coleman – 35 years
Trevor Smith – 45 years
Ron Lancaster – 55 years
Bob Still – 65 years
Ron Van Brummelen was awarded Heyfield Firefighter of 2014 by the brigade.
A fantastic night celebrating the significant service of so many within the Heyfield community.
Author: Emily Haala