April 15th to 18th was a busy weekend for Brigades in the Metcalfe Group with a number of award ceremonies taking place.
Taradale Hall played host to the annual Taradale Fire Brigade awards on Friday 15th April. A number of awards were presented including CFA Life Memberships for Russell Maltby (50 years) and David Penno (45 years). Russell, who has stepped down from firefighting duties, was presented with his turnout coat framed with thanks from a grateful brigade and community for his service. It was a sight to be seen and the only time Russell was speechless, for at least a minute.
CFA Board Member Michael Tudball also attended the evening and presented National Emergency Medals to David Penno and Terence McManus, recognising their efforts during the 2009 Victorian Bushfires.
The Brigade also presented their own awards including Brigade Member of the Year, voted on by the Brigade members. So hotly contested it had to be jointly awarded to Adam Paine and Leanne Schomacker. On the night a garden seat was also donated to the Brigade in memory Ex-Captain Max Robinson and Ex-Lieutenant George Reid, two stalwart members of the brigade. The seat, which sits in the brigade garden, was lit up so members could see it as they travelled home.
Next was Langley-Barfold Fire Brigade who held an awards luncheon at the Redesdale Hall on Sunday 17th of April. Over 1,100 years of service was recognised on the day by the volunteers within the Brigade. Operations Officer Tim Fitzgerald presented the awards, including a medal for 60 years’ service awarded to Rob Murray. The Brigade enjoyed a lunch and was able to reminisce about the many fires and events responded to by the Brigade over the years including January’s Edgecombe Road Fire.
Not to be outdone Harcourt Fire Brigade held its annual awards on Monday 18th April. Awards presented included two 45 year awards along with a 35 and 10 year medal. All recognising volunteers ‘commitment to the Brigade.
Author: District 2 News