Traralgon West Fire Brigade took a trip down memory lane to celebrate more than 75 years of service to the community.
On February 9 the brigade celebrated the anniversary of its inaugural meeting held in 1940.
More than 50 people attended; a far cry from the eight landowners who gathered on the same day 75 years earlier.
South East Assistant Chief Officer Trevor Owen, Don Little, ex-captain, honorary life member and volunteer of more than 60 years attended the celebratory barbecue and meeting with Acting Operations Officer Glen Ravenhall, Station Officer Aaron Worcester and John O’Brien from Morwell Fire Brigade, who also attended with a 1610 pumper.
Captain Brian Soall says Traralgon West, now with around 30 members, has a long and proud history of protecting the community.
He said work was being done to recognise the history of the brigade, including digitalising the original minutes of the meeting held on 9 February, 1940, written in scroll.
He said the brigade would also recognise the contributions of former brigade members with the installation of several honour boards listing the names of people who held key positions including ex-captains.
An unveiling of the honour boards will occur later this year.
Captain Soall said Traralgon West continued to be a very active brigade.
“This year will be no different with the brigade actively recruiting more volunteers, and raising vital funding for the purchase of valuable equipment,” he said.
The brigade is currently focussed on raising money for the Royal Children’s Good Friday Appeal, before turning the focus on itself, and fundraise to replace its Field Command Vehicle (FCV).
It is looking forward to further station improvements, including plans to build a dedicated office, a Personal Protective Equipment room, installing the Gatertronics turn out system and fitting both brigade vehicles with defibrillators.
Author: CFA Media