By KATH GANNAWAY
TWO of Wesburn-Millgrove’s Fire Brigade’s longest-service members were among volunteers honoured at the brigade’s awards dinner on 16 November.
In a night that reflected the strength and character of the brigade, 20 brigade members received certificates and medals recognising their dedication and service as volunteer firefighters from five years to 50 years.
Former captain and brigade president Brian Halit AFSM was presented with a 50-year Life Membership Award and a third clasp for his National Medal, while captain Paul Burke was presented with Brigade and CFA life memberships, a 30-year Service Medal and the National Medal.
In a surprise that Mr Halit said left him uncharacteristically speechless, the brigade’s new tanker was named in his honour.
Mr Halit joined the brigade in 1962 and has served three times as captain, as well as serving at Group level and in the field throughout the region, the state and interstate. He is currently brigade president and a respected and highly qualified mentor and advisor.
Mr Burke is another long-time brigade faithful joining in 1980 and serving through the ranks including two stints as captain.
Described as ‘the backbone’ of the brigade, he was presented with both brigade and CFA Life Membership on the night.
The dinner was attended by Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Jim Child and CFA representatives including Mr Tim Holland, Acting Operations Officer District 13, Mr David Spokes CFA Executive Director, Mr Bill Watson, President District 13 Volunteer Fire Brigades and Group Officer Yarra Valley Group, Mr Andrew Webber.
Many community members also attended to show appreciation for the role volunteer brigade members play in the community.
Other awards were:
25-year medal: Tom Allman. 20-year medal: Anthony Sequirrea, Barry Powell and Maxine Burke. 15- year medal: David Hutchinson. 10-year medal: John Tarpkos, Tony Lewis, Adam Pelling, Richard Ireland and Andrew Bennett. Five-year certificate: Michael Belling, Craig Feeny, Robert Bevis, Timothy Coster, Gary Shotter, Adam Powell, Henry Meldrum and Ashley Kenneth.
