.JPG "Recipients of the Individual Unit Citation for Service among CFA dignitaries and notable attendees")
Recipients of the Individual Unit Citation for Service among CFA dignitaries and notable attendees
First responders to the devastating Daylesford crash have been honoured one year after the horrific accident that claimed five lives.
CFA dignitaries, including CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan and board member Rosemary Martin, presented the distinguished Unit Citation for Service to the Daylesford, Hepburn, Franklinford, and Musk Fire Brigades during a commemoration service marking the tragedy’s first anniversary, on Sunday.
Nineteen members of the Daylesford Fire Brigade, nine from Hepburn, one from Franklinford, and one from Musk also each received Individual Unit Citations for Service recognising their outstanding service.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said: “This award honours not only the bravery and professionalism of our CFA volunteers during such a harrowing event but also their unwavering commitment to their communities.”
“These volunteers worked under unimaginable conditions, demonstrating the very best of CFA’s values.
“This award is about appreciating the service of our members while also acknowledging the profound loss felt by the families and loved ones affected. We stand with you, as does this community.”
Daylesford Captain Glenn Webster, who also received a Commendation for Service alongside his Citation, expressed immense pride in his fellow brigade members and the emergency responders who assisted.
“I’m in awe of what they did that day. They responded without hesitation and faced the most horrific scene you could imagine,” Glenn said.
“They worked professionally, did everything they could to assist the injured, and supported paramedics when they arrived. They were just outstanding.”
Reflecting on the wider impact, Glenn highlighted how the community rallied in the aftermath of the tragedy.
“On that terrible day one year ago, and in the days that followed, community was everything,” he said.
“They were fantastic - dropping off flowers to the brigade and even bringing meals on the night of the event because they knew we were exhausted.
“There was a great deal of kindness shown to us, and it’s a privilege to serve such a compassionate community.”
Turning his thoughts to the families impacted by the tragedy, Glenn offered a heartfelt message of support.
“They were not alone. They and you will forever remain a part of the extended family of this community.”