Fighting fires for five decades

FOLLOWING in his father’s volunteer footsteps, Alwyn Parker joined the Smythesdale Fire Brigade at sixteen years old.

Almost 55 years later, Mr Parker doesn’t just remain an active member, but is the station’s captain for a second time, leading operations.

In more than five decades, he’s seen 150 members come through the doors, many of those during his first term as captain which lasted 26 years.

“The most enjoyment you get out of it is seeing new members coming on board, learning the skills of firefighting, and seeing the achievements they gain over a period of time,” he said.

“You develop a working relationship with your members and encourage them to take responsibility. There are so many personal skills you gain through CFA and leadership, and the training programs available.

“For example, one of our members is part of the wellbeing team and works out of headquarters in Melbourne.”

Captain Parker said he joined the brigade to contribute to his community, but now almost 70, he’s had a lot of fun along the way.

“The comradeship between members is very high, and there are great friendships you make.

“In later years, we started to have running teams which go to the CFA championships, and I’ve really enjoyed that,” he said.

“The brigade’s been very successful regionally and at the state level. Training young people, representing CFA at state championships, and becoming state champions has been a real highlight and thrill for everyone involved in the brigade.”

Captain Parker said the 45 active members at the Smythesdale station attend about 100 emergencies a year, but their contributions don’t just have a local impact.

“We go away on strike team duties to other parts of the state, and interstate, and we have a rehab unit which can be deployed anywhere between Bacchus Marsh, and the South Australian border,” he said.

“Anyone out there in the community who is interested to join is welcome to make themselves known at the station.”