Churchill Fire Brigade held their annual presentation night on Saturday 26 October at the Churchill Hotel, playing host to guest of honour Chief Officer Euan Ferguson AFSM and his wife Kristen, and Acting Operations Officer John Radford.
Also celebrating with the Churchill brigade were officers and members from surrounding brigades and the Morwell Group, and a number of now retired ex-members and other friends of the brigade.
After a delicious meal, Captain Steve Barling rose to welcome the guests and members.
Steve gave a review of the brigade’s achievements over the past year, and concluded by saying how deeply proud he was of everything done this past year by the brigade.
Chief Officer Euan then spoke saying it was pleasure to be back in the area where he had previously served; it was like being amongst old friends again. He thanked all brigade members present for their ongoing work and commitment to the community, and for their dedication to the CFA.
The Chief Officer, assisted by Acting Operations Officer John Radford, then presented seven members with National medals or bars, along with CFA Service Awards.
National Medal
4th Lieutenant Blake Coss, Communications Officer Chris Gallagher, Firefighter Scott Randall
National Medal and First Bar
Firefighter Anthony Gallagher
National Medal First Bar
Captain Steven Barling, Firefighter Rob Langston, Firefighter Allan Larkin
CFA 5 year service Certificate
Firefighter Andrew Thompson
CFA 10 Year Service Medal
Firefighter Darren Devlin
CFA 15 Year Service Clasp
Firefighter David Sutherland (absent)
Presentation of brigade awards followed:
Firefighter of the Year - Mark Andruschak
Most Consistent - Chris Gallagher
Encouragement Awards - Rick Andruschak and Aaron Marriott
Captain’s Trophy - Ashleigh Caldwell
The evening concluded with members and guests enjoying friendly fellowship and entertainment from a local two piece band.
Author: Steven Barling