Thanks to Lawrence, Waitahuna volunteer brigades

AT Labour Weekend, the Lawrence Volunteer Fire Brigade celebrated the 125th anniversary since the formation of the fire service in Lawrence. A tremendous record of volunteer service to the wider community, then in the early 1980s, the Waitahuna Fire Brigade was established to supplement the wider community need.

A great gathering of current and former members along with a number of family representatives of past members celebrated together.

It was a thrill to have a Lawrence member of 54 years’ service and New Zealand’s first female volunteer firefighter (Wallis family) cut the replica fire engine cake.

A great function and many thanks to Chief Fire Officer Cory Tisdal and team for planning and delivering the occasion. The event was attended by the Minister of Internal Affairs and a number of senior officers of Fenz along with community representatives.

During the evening, annual service awards were presented to a number of members from both brigades.

To fire chief Tisdal and Waitahuna chief Russell Homer, well done and thank you for the great community service that continues into the decades ahead I’m sure. Colin Weatherall

Brighton (former member LVFB)