By Irene Keating<\/p>\n
The recently renovated St Martin\u2019s Chapel in the heart of Blackwood played backdrop to the Brigade\u2019s awards presentation evening on Saturday 28 October. <\/p>\n
Alongside 14 of their members, who received service awards ranging from 5 years to a stellar 35 and 45-year service, two members, Peter Daglish and Leon Rolls, were presented with their National Emergency Medal for service rendered during the nationally significant 2019-20 bushfires by West Region DCO Brett Boatman. <\/p>\n
Captain Ross Hall said the Brigade does not have a big membership.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut, we all understand the fire risk and relative isolation of a small town surrounded by state forest,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe members work together to make sure we are well trained and prepared for fires and other emergencies including the June 2021 storm event.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Hall said the brigade performs all of the checks for the Community Fire Refuge component of their Fire Station during the Fire Danger Period.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd, we work with the local community to ensure they are familiar with the Fire Refuge.\u201d<\/p>\n
DCO Boatman thanked all members for their service to the Brigade, CFA, and the community of Blackwood.<\/p>\n