CFA members have come together with the families of fallen firefighters to remember those who have been lost while protecting their communities.
The annual memorial service was held as part of CFA’s recognition of International Firefighters’ Day on 4 May; a global event started by CFA members to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and to thank those who continue to serve.
This years service was held on Sunday at Federation University’s Churchill Campus in Gippsland, and marked the 40th anniversary since the loss of Churchill firefighter Darren McLean.
The passing of John Mynard in 1990 and Doug Henry in 2005 from the nearby brigades of Trafalgar and Glengarry West respectively were also recognised.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the annual memorial service was a fitting tribute to all firefighters.
“The CFA Roll of Honour contains the names of 80 firefighters who we will never forget,” CO Heffernan said.
“This includes 11 Country Fire Brigades Board and Bush Fire Brigade Committee firefighters prior to CFA’s inception, and 69 CFA members all who gave their lives in service.
“This year we endured another tragedy in the firefighting community, with South Australia’s Country Fire Service losing volunteer firefighter Louise Hincks in January.
“Our deepest condolences go out to her family and friends, as well as her brigade and firefighting colleagues.”
Pictured: CFA CEO Natalie MacDonald
International Firefighters’ Day has been recognised since 1999 and was started by CFA volunteers following the tragic loss of five firefighters in Linton the previous year.
The date coincides with St Florian’s Day, who is recognised as the patron saint of firefighters.
Pictured: CFA Board Chair Greg Wilson
CO Heffernan encouraged all Victorians to take a moment to reflect this Wednesday, 4 May.
“International Firefighters Day allows the world to remember those who have fallen, and acknowledge today’s firefighters who honour that sacrifice with a continued commitment and dedication to protecting their communities.”