On Sunday 26 April, Smythesdale Fire Brigade members, Minister of Emergency Services Jane Garrett, Local Member Geoff Howard, CFA Board Member Michael Tudball, CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson, Mayor of the Golden Plains Shire and Grenville Group Officer Des Phelan and President of the VFBV Hans Van Hamond all gathered at Scarsdale where Smythesdale has its satellite station.
The big occasion was the opening of this satellite station and handover of the VESEP-funded 2.4C Medium Tanker which will be housed in the new satellite station.
All members and dignitaries continued onto the Smythesdale Recreation Reserve to enjoy a two-course lunch and medal presentation.
Nine members received the VFBV jewel Brigade Life Member award for their 30 years or more dedicated active service in the Smythesdale brigade.
11 members received 5 year service certificates.
Five members received 10 year service medals.
Six members received 15 year service medals.
One member received a 20 year service medal.
Five members received 30 year life member service medals.
One member received a 35 year life member service medal.
The Chief Officer with Minister Garrett awarded nine members from Smythesdale Fire Brigade the National Emergency Medals and one member from Ballarat Fire Brigade, Miners Rest Fire Brigade, Mt Egerton Fire Brigade and the DMOs Ballarat for the 2009 fires.
PHOTOS: BLAIR DELLEMIJIN
Author: Samantha Plater