Honours for Heathcote Firemen

SIX members of the Heathcote Fire Brigade were awarded Nations Emergency Medals at a ceremony at the JB Osbourne Theatre, Crusoe College, Kangaroo Flat, earlier this year.

Michael Lumsden, John McGillivray, Bo Vejby, Ricky Leyshan, Jamie Baker and Carl Watkins were all presented with medals. Fred Miller was also honoured but was unable to attend.

“The medals are Australian Honours, recognising service to others during national significant emergencies such as the bushfires in 2009 and 2019-20, and the North Queensland floods in 2019,” said Laraine Leask, CFA secretary.

“They have all gone above and beyond. The crew are a modest bunch and don’t like a fuss,” she said, “but we are proud of them and grateful for all they do.

“With predictions of a dangerous fire season ahead, I think we have the best possible crew ready to assist in emergencies.

“El Niño has now been officially declared, which means hotter than average summer temperatures and a heightened bushfire risk.

“We are urging everyone to help us by preparing their properties.”

Property Assessment Visits are now available to residents free of charge.

To register or for more information, email [email protected] or visit the station on Sundays from 9am to 11am.