Four centuries of volunteer service recognised

MEMBERS of the Wallace Fire Brigade have been formally recognised for their combined contribution of more than four hundred years of service.

Over 60 brigade volunteers, their families and members of the community attended a function at the Springbank Recreation Reserve clubrooms last Friday for presentations of service awards.

CFA brigade administration support officer Irene Keating said deputy chief officer for the west region, Brett Boatman, presented awards ranging from recognition of five years of service to a 60-year CFA Life Medal.

“In total, this small brigade of 21 members received recognition for over 400 years of service,” Ms Keating said.

“A strong theme throughout the evening highlighted the crucial support of brigade families, acknowledging that without their willingness to stay behind and ‘keep the home fires burning’ whilst the members respond to the pager, our firefighters could not do what they do.

“It was a pleasure to see so many families attend to see their fathers, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters receive their award, which was especially significant for two members – current captain John Toohey receiving his 40-year CFA Life Member medal and former captain Les Bubb receiving his 60-year CFA Life Member medal.”

Ms Keating said Mr Bubb also provided a historical account of the brigade’s past, noting the old HF radio displayed proudly on the bar and the room being decorated with several old fire beaters hanging from the walls.

Members to receive the five-year certificate of service were Jamie Van Egmond, Mark Goss, Simon Quinlan and Timothy Vollmer.

Gary Busuttil received a 10-year medal and Tamara Bubb a 15-year medal, while 20-year medals were presented to Brendan Maher and Richard Maher.

Darren Conroy and Richard Coffin received 35-year medals, and Robert Toohey was presented with a 40-year medal.

A 45-year medal went to Norm Lazzo, while Gerard Everard received a 50-year medal.

CFA life memberships were awarded to captain John Toohey (40-year medal) and Les Bubb (60-year medal).