Service awards for volunteers
Long service to the Country Fire Authority was acknowledged at a special dinner recently.
Members of the newly formed Baw Baw Group gathered at Danny’s the Venue for the presentation of service awards.
The newly formed group includes members of Darnum Ellinbank, Erica and District, Longwarry District, Nilma North, Trafalgar, Warragul, Willow Grove, District 9 headquarters, Drouin West, Hallora and District, Neerim South, Noojee, Trida, Westbury and Yarragon.
Presentations were made by assistant chief officer Trevor Owen.
National medal clasps for diligent and outstanding service were presented to Brian Brewer, Ian Mackay, Trevor Forrest, Geoff Cumming, Trevor Parker and Alan Richardson.
CFA life memberships were presented to Ted Osler, Robert Kirkland and John Atkins.
Long serving member of the Longwarry and District Fire Brigade Duncan Holman received a 75 year service award. His service predates the formation of the CFA when other volunteer services existed.
Other long serving Longwarry members were Wayne Roots (35) Chris Rieschieck (40) and Jim Mowat (55).
Allan Saunders and Jim Smethurst from the Hallora and District brigade received 60 and 70 year awards respectively.
Darnum Ellinbank member Russell Gaul received a 45 year service award.
Ken Craig from Drouin brigade received a 40 year award, while Jeff Lochlier from Drouin West received a 35 year award.
Trevor Parker and Geoff Cumming of Neerim South were awarded the 60 and 35 year awards respectively.
Colin Gray from Nilma North was acknowledged for the 50 year service award.
Terrence Pentland of Trida received a 40 year award while Alan Potter and Peter Homan of Warragul received 45 year awards.
National emergency medals were presented to Brian Dalrymple and Mark Gallagher.