Parade to honour new fire station

Acity-wide“If you are looking to be a part of something bigger, learn new skills, meet new people and give back to the community – I encourage you to come down for the community open day and speak to our crew” – Daniel Ramsdell

celebration will officially launch the opening of a new fire station in Ararat, as the community pays tribute to integral past and present service volunteers.

To mark the opening of a new Ararat Fire Station on Saturday, Ararat brigade members will lead tours of the new station, show off vehicles and offer fire-fighting demonstrations.

Several brigades will also take part in a ‘Torchlight Parade’ in the evening, led by Ararat brigade’s original pumper, on loan from Melbourne Fire Museum, and Ararat City Band.

Ararat Rural City mayor Jo Armstrong said volunteers remained the ‘backbone’ of the community and their longevity was crucial to the success of community projects and programs.

“Volunteers help to provide much-needed services to our city and are crucial to the success of countless community projects and programs, much like the Ararat Fire Brigade,” she said.

“Council encourages families to come along to the community open day to tour the Ararat Fire Station and meet local members who volunteer their time to help protect people, wildlife and property across greater Ararat.

“We are also urging members of the public to join in the torchlight parade to witness a once-ina-lifetime procession, as we celebrate the opening of the new Ararat Fire Station.

“It’s simply a way of saying ‘thank you’ to Ararat Rural City’s first responders and recognising the significant contribution to our local communities.”

Ararat Fire Brigade captain Daniel Ramsdell said he was ‘excited’ about the official celebrations.

“A lot of planning and preparation has gone into the community open day and torchlight celebrations after being postponed twice due to COVID-19,” he said.

“The community open day is a fantastic opportunity for the public to view the station, get involved in various activities and demonstrations, and a chance to speak to our members for those looking to volunteer or join the brigade.

“The Ararat brigade is a great bunch and always looking to do our best to serve our community.

“If you are looking to be a part of something bigger, learn new skills, meet new people and give back to the community – I encourage you to come down for the community open day and speak to our crew.”

The evening procession will also honour three late firefighters from the Ararat brigade – captain Alan J. Butt, December 13, 1954 to September 12, 2019; group officer Wayne ‘Wilbur’ Wilde, March 9, 1975 to September 15, 2021; and captain Kingsley J. Walker, April 10, 1945 to October 15, 2020 – with their names displayed on the side of the fire trucks.

The open day is from 10am to 2pm and the parade kicks off at 6.30pm from Barkly Street and will finish at the fire station.

Surrounding streets will be closed to traffic for the parade.