SATURDAY, September 13, was an outstanding night for the Mirboo North CFA family with medals and awards piled up to the rafters.
The Leongatha RSL was jam-packed with CFA members, families and community representatives to help celebrate the brigades’ efforts.
Captain Trent Venten thanked the members for their teamwork and dedication to protecting the community.
Deputy Chief Officer (DCO) Trevor Owen from CFA South East Region thanked the team for their unwavering commitment to protecting life and property before presenting the awards.
In recognition for years of service, Tony Ebeyer received a five-year certificate, Rob Smart a 10-year service medal, and Peter Ramsdale and Colin Murray received 15-year service medals.
Heather Barker received a medal for an outstanding 30 years of service to CFA.
One of the highest honours in CFA is the National Medal for Emergency Services. A big congratulations to Brayden Groen, Frances Wilson, Heather Barker and Jason Barnes for receiving their National Awards.
This acknowledges a high level of dedication to the service and other members, industrious efforts and carrying out duties with perseverance and painstaking effort.
Special Mirboo North CFA Brigade life memberships were bestowed to Craig Barker, Heather Barker, Aaron Wilson, Brayden Groen and Rhonda Barnes.
Each member has given more than 20 years of their life to the Mirboo North Fire Brigade.
That’s a lot of hours extinguishing fires, attending road rescue events, helping in emergencies, training, servicing fire equipment, attending community events, doing welfare checks and assisting community members.
A surprise for the night was the inaugural Firefighter of the Year award.
This was presented to an operational member in recognition of their drive, attending emergency events and displaying great firefighting skills.
Congratulations to firefighter David Knowles for receiving this honour.
The Lieutenants allocated the Steve Groen Award to firefighter Tim Bessell-Browne for his leadership skills, knowledge and support to other brigade members.
Captain Venten presented the Ian Moon Award to firefighter Charlotte Pors for her outstanding enthusiasm to train, learn and be a great brigade member.
Several brigade appreciation awards were presented to Grant Morrison, Callie Dunbar and Daniel Pors for their initiative and support.
Congratulations to all Mirboo North CFA Brigade members who selflessly give their time and energy to volunteer and protect the community from fire and emergencies during rain, hail and shine, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Special thanks to Loch CFA Fire and Rescue for covering the area during the dinner.
Thank you to Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien and South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr John Schelling for attending the awards night and supporting the CFA volunteers.
A big thank you also goes to Trevor Brewster for loaning his bus to transport members to Leongatha and back.
