Teesdale local named community legend

TEESDALE’S David Burge has been named as one of five ‘legends’ in a nationwide initiative celebrating locals who just quietly help hold their communities together.

The Bunnings Community Legends initiative celebrates five nominated people each week across 10 weeks, shining a spotlight on everyday Australians whose quiet acts of service are transforming their regions for the better.

A CFA volunteer for a quarter of a century, Mr Burge has been the backbone of the Teesdale area through wholehearted dedication, quiet courage and humility.

From spending extended time away from his family on the frontline during the 2019 NSW bushfires to giving up his weekends to train and upskill female CFA volunteers through driving courses, his commitment never wavers.

Mr Burge said it was “a bit of a surprise” when he found out that he had been nominated as a Bunnings Community Legend by his daughter, Victoria, and he was very quick to praise his local CFA brigade when contacted for comment.

“We work as a team to get things done,” he said.

“I’m proud of my daughter nominating me but publicity is not something I strive to achieve.

“It’s a bit of a surprise so we’ll just take this roller coaster ride and see where it goes,” added the long-time local whose most recent fire season included turning out for the Lismore, Mount Mercer and Otways fires.

“The township here are great supporters of our brigade and contribute to us. It’s a fantastic community spirit here. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

Mr Burge is now among the contenders to be crowned national winner in Melbourne in June, with the winner receiving a $10,000 donation for their chosen community group, a $1000 Bunnings voucher, and a trip to the Bunnings National Conference.