Local firefighters awarded National Emergency Medals

MORE than 150 local volunteer firefighters and staff members from CFA’s District 7 received National Emergency Medals for their efforts in the 2019-2020 Australian bushfire crisis.

The National Emergency Medal is part of Australia’s Honour and Awards system and recognises significant or sustained service to others in a nationally significant Australian emergency.

Firefighters from District 7, which covers the Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong, were honoured at a ceremony earlier in the month, with the region’s 150 award recipients being part of the 5500 CFA members to receive the award.

Attended by board representatives including CFA CEO Natalie MacDonald, CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan and South West Region Deputy Chief Officer Rohan Luke, the board reinforced that the the presentations were an important recognition of the valiant efforts of CFA members across Australia.

“The National Emergency Medal is a formal recognition that Australia appreciates the efforts and contributions of CFA members during the 2019-2020 bushfire crisis,” they said.

“It is a great honour to receive this medal and we hope it goes a small way to thanking our members for their service.”

CFA District 7 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Brendan Lawson spoke of his pride for the CFA members’ efforts during the ceremony and noted that it was terrific to formally acknowledge the sacrifice of members during the fires.

He said he was humbled and privileged to witness his district members be awarded the National Emergency Medals.

Steve Gibbs, First Lieutenant, Ocean Grove Brigade said he felt honoured to receive his award, sharing that the presentation of the National Emergency Medals was an incredibly special occasion.

“The presentation ticked all of the boxes; it was respectful, memorable and emotional,” Lt Gibbs said.

“It’ll be a day that I will remember for a long time to come and well done to all involved in this special event, you did CFA proud.”

Anakie Captain and medal recipient Adam Jones, echoed Gibb’s comment, noting that it was special to be formally recognised.

“It is great that CFA recognise the good work that brigades do and while volunteers don’t do it for this reason, it is nice to be formally acknowledged,” Jones said.

“My thoughts are still with the areas that were hugely affected during this time.”.