Massage chair stolen
Mr Atkins, who has served the brigade in every role possible except of secretary, said the honour was the last thing he expected when he opened the letter up.
“I thought gosh, someone has done something behind my back that I didn’t know about,” he said.
“You don’t ask for it, you’re not in it for the medals really, but when they come along they are a nice thing to have.
“My greatest achievement as a fire fighter will always be saving people’s homes.
“It’s what I was trained to do and continue to do. “It’s why we’re here, for the people.” Mr Atkins has served the community as a volunteer firefighter with the Drouin Fire Brigade for 50 years, including 33 as captain. He is a life member and was instrumental in establishing a new station in Sinclair St.
A congratulatory message from the Drouin brigade said Mr Atkins has made an exceptional contribution to the CFA through his commitment to fire prevention, operational training and readiness, his excellent record of response and command at emergencies and was described as an excellent role model and mentor.
Mr Atkins also established ‘Youth Crew’ programs at Drouin Secondary College.
“When I first joined I never thought I’d be there 50 years later,” he said. “It’s been an interesting life. “I came (to the brigade) when I gave up footy, I’m still involved there too.
“They have been the two loves of my life, plus my family.
“I’m fortunate that I’ve had the time to give to the fire brigade and football club.”
A massage chair valued at $1000 was stolen from a storage shed for a Warragul hairdressing salon last week.
The theft occurred from a shed behind Struktor salon in Queen St.
Police said offenders forced entry to the shed between Monday and Wednesday and stole a massage chair valued at $1000.