Joe Watts and CFA board member Beth Davidson OAM reveal the Inglewood tanker's new name
Inglewood Fire Brigade marked a significant milestone over the weekend, celebrating its 160th anniversary with a special dinner to honour its long-serving members.
The event, held at Inglewood Golf Club, featured the naming of the brigade’s two trucks. They were dedicated to Joe Watts, who served for 55 years, and former Captain Brian Rodwell.
Inglewood Fire Brigade Captain Andrew Smith said the event was a fitting tribute to all past and present members who have served the community since 1864.
“It’s hard to put into words what the 160th anniversary means to the town, and the celebrations certainly lived up to expectations,” Andrew said.
“Recognising the contributions of Joe and Brian was a highlight for us all.”
A particularly poignant moment came when the family of former member David Dowler accepted his CFA life membership on his behalf.
David, who dedicated a combined 32 years of service to the Inglewood and Maldon fire brigades, sadly passed away shortly before the event.
“Dave was always first to the station when the pager went, and first to put up his hand for strike team duties,” Andrew said.
“He has been an integral part of the Inglewood brigade for several years and his sudden passing has affected the entire team.
“Dave’s guidance and sense of humour will be sadly missed.
“We were privileged to have members of Dave’s family attend our 160th celebration.”
Additional recognition included CFA life memberships for John Little (35 years) and David Patterson (30 years). Service awards, ranging from five-year certificates to 50-year medals, were also presented.
Andrew, who has been with the brigade for 18 years and served as captain for eight, expressed his pride in leading the brigade through such a significant occasion.
“It’s an honour to lead the brigade at such an important time in its history,” he said.
“Living in a small country town and being part of the CFA is about giving back to the community.”
Established in 1864, following a meeting of 150 locals at the Royal Hotel in Inglewood, the brigade operated from its Grant Street station for 154 years before moving to a new station on Southey Street in 2019.
“We’ve been fortunate to move into a brand new station, and we’ve recently added a new heavy tanker,” Andrew said.
“The old station, designed for horse-drawn vehicles, will always be part of our history, but the new facility is a huge boost.”
Inglewood itself was devastated by a fire in 1862, two years before the brigade was formed. The townspeople managed to stop the fire by tearing down buildings and ferrying water from a nearby dam. More recently, the brigade responded to a major shop fire on the town’s main street in late August this year.
With 30 members currently on the roster, Inglewood Fire Brigade is well positioned for its next 160 years, although Andrew said there is always room for more recruits.
“We’re always on the lookout for people willing to help protect their local community. If you’re interested, we’d love to hear from you.”
If you or anyone you know is interested in becoming a CFA volunteer, you can find out more here.