Pomonal Fire Brigade was today recognised for the firefighting efforts of members during the recent Grampians fires and those last February.
Gathering at Pomonal Town Hall today (27 January) for their Community Australia Day Breakfast and Awards Presentation, members were honoured in front of their friends and family with gratitude expressed for their highly respected operational response over the last two summers.
Chief Officer Jason Heffernan proudly presented the resilient brigade and Captain Steve Field with a Special Recognition Award, the highest of its kind in CFA, for their outstanding service throughout a significant event.
“It is a known risk to CFA members that at some stage you may face a situation in which your own property is under threat from fire, and with that comes the unenviable dilemma of having to choose to either focus your efforts on yourself or protect the broader community,” Chief Officer Heffernan said.
“On the 13 February 2024 and in the days that followed, members of the Pomonal Fire Brigade faced this precise predicament as a fire event that would eventually claim some 47 homes, devastating their community.
“In the midst of this large-scale incident, the local members conducted themselves with great professionalism and demonstrated complete selflessness as they continued working tirelessly at the fire front.
“Their consistent presence on scene and the support provided to the public was widely felt and greatly appreciated by the community, who are proud to have such dedicated CFA members at their service.”
The morning also saw two very deserving recipients, Ararat Group Officer (GO) David Coad and Ararat Deputy Group Officer (DGO) Matt Venn, receive the esteemed Chief Officer’s Commendation.
David Coad is being recognised for his impressive actions as Group Officer during the significant event in February, and Matt Venn for his supportive leadership as the Group Strike Team Leader.
“In a time of great distress for the Pomonal community, David, Matt and their fellow brigade members demonstrated to the highest level, the spirit of CFA and I couldn’t be prouder as Chief Officer,” Jason said.
“Acting GO David Coad put the welfare of members and the local community at the forefront of his actions, and it has been noted with much respect and admiration.
“David exuded calmness and confidence from day one of the fire and provided exceptional operational leadership and communication to fire crews and other responding agencies.
“Despite his own home and that of fellow community and brigade members being under threat, DGO Matt Venn conducted himself with great professionalism, care and concern.
“He was instrumental in key decisions and his efficient manner ensured the effective planning of resources, personnel, logistics, and the recovery effort.”
Throughout the celebrations, District 16 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Alcock also presented nine CFA Service Awards, ranging from 10 years to a notable 45 years.
A further five brigade members were also acknowledged for their devoted service, awarded 30-to-65-year CFA Life Member Awards, alongside a National Emergency Medal to David Gething for the 2019/20 bushfires.
Read more on the efforts of the Pomonal volunteers and Ararat Group members and their reflections of the devasting February 2024 fires on our website.