Huntly Fire Brigade celebrated the opening of its new fire station in the 70th anniversary year of the brigade.
Formed in 1946, the brigade has grown from its humble tin shed beginnings to an active and busy volunteer fire service with 50 operational and support members, including an enthusiastic junior brigade and running teams.
The morning commenced with a march by members from the ‘old’ station to the new facility, and the formality of this tradition was not lost on locals who came out to support the brigade on this special occasion.
An official opening ceremony was attended by a large audience who filled the motor-room to see the unveiling of the commemorative plaque. Captain, Tony Jackson and members welcomed guests, including Hon. Jacinta Allan, MP; Mr Alen Slijepcevic, CFA Deputy Chief Officer; Mr Craig Lapsley, Commissioner Emergency Management Victoria; Deborah Webster, Dja Dja Wurrung; local councillors, regional CFA and SES dignitaries; former and current brigade members and families, and other local identities.
With the formalities over, the afternoon was shared with local residents in a Community Open Day. The station grounds were filled with colourful and informative displays from local emergency services and community groups, including Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police, Neighbourhood Watch, Landcare, Bendigo and Northern District Community Enterprise, Huntly and Districts’ Historical Society, CFA Community Education Group, Central Victorian Fire Service Preservation Society, and Huntly Lions Club. The station was a hive of busy children and families joining brigade members in celebrating this new community asset.
The new station marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Huntly Fire Brigade and the communities in which we serve.
Author: District 2 News