Story by Chesney Vale Captain - Laury Soyer.
The volunteer services, of many of the members of the Chesney Vale Fire Brigade, were recognized at a dinner held at the Mokoan Yacht Club Wednesday 22nd April.
Guests of honour included Ross Coyle (member of the CFA Board), Gary Cook (Assistant Chief Officer Hume Region) and Jim Renkin (Benalla Group Officer).
Three members received a National Medal. Ross Coyle presented Russell Ellis and Laury Soyer the National Medal with 35 year clasp and Ray Grant the National Medal with 25 year clasp. Mr Coyle then presented Russell Ellis with a CFA Life Membership for exemplary service provided to the CFA over a period of 40 years.
Assistant Chief Officer Garry Cook presented service awards to eleven members, with Colin Grant receiving a 60 year service award, Glenn Goudie receiving a 50 year service award and Ian Hammond a 45 year service award. Other recipients were Bob Harrow, Laury Soyer, John Steel, David Soyer, Liz Grant, Greg Honey, Jim Shuttleworth, Helen Ellis and Andy Ellis. A total 285 years of voluntary service was recognised that evening.
Ladies of the Thoona CWA provided catering for the evening. The relaxed and relative informal format of the evening provided a very social environment for all those who attended.
Photos: cfa presentation (1) Russell Ellis being presented a Life Membership by Mr Ross Coyle
cfa presentation (2) Ray Grant being presented the National Medal with 25 year clasp by Mr Ross Coyle
cfa presentation (3) Laury Soyer being presented the National Medal with 35 year clasp by Mr Ross Coyle
cfa presentation (4) Colin Grant being presented 60 year Service Award by ACO Garry Cook
cfa presentation (5) All recipients of awards left to right, rear row - Ian Hammond, John Steel, David Soyer, Greg Honey, Andy Ellis, Jim Shuttleworth, Laury Soyer, Bob Harrow, Russell Ellis, Ray Grant
front row - Glenn Goudie, Colin Grant, Helen Ellis, Liz Grant
Author: Michael Daws