600 years of CFA service at Learmonth Addington

LIFE memberships, service medals and a certificate of appreciation were awarded to members of the Learmonth Addington Rural Fire Brigade at an event on Sunday.

The gathering was an opportunity for the community volunteers, who often face challenging experiences, to come together and celebrate their achievements.

“Listening to the stories and looking back at the history is just amazing,” said brigade President Sarah Algie. “Some of these blokes have been in it for 60 years, that’s most of their lives. They just selflessly give their time, money and lives. To do that over and over is just incredible.”

Top brass made it out for the ceremony, with Deputy-Chief Officer Gavin Freeman acknowledging the effort made by brigade members.

“It’s really humbling, actually, to come out and see the recognition of over 600 years’ service to the community,” he said.

Awards given included a 60 Year Medal and CFA life membership to Ted Harrison. Brigade life memberships went to Alan Baird, David Edmonston, Ken Stowe, Gordon Harrison, Noel Wettenhall (posthumous) and Lex Findlay (posthumous).

Other service medals included Alan Baird, Graham Findlay, Gordon Harrison and Ken Stowe – 55 years, David Edmonston and David Stowe – 50 years, Malcom Pearce – 40 years, Lorraine Austin, Wesley Harrison and Linda Whelan – 30 years, Craig Findlay, Matthew Stowe and Wesley Stowe – 20 years, Charles Edmonston – 15 years, Kevin Davies, Sam Hayward, Brett Knight, Joel Pearce and Andrew Powell – 10 years. Len Harwood received a five-year certificate.

Outgoing brigade treasurer Linda Whelan also received a Certificate of Appreciation for her 24 years managing the books.