Celebrations for Burra Rural Fire Brigade on 50th anniversary

Member for Monaro, Hon. Steve Whan MP and Acting Area Commander, Superintendent Paul Jones AFSM will join brigade members, family and friends and other special guests at an event at the Burra Fire Station today.

Mr Whan said the event is an opportunity to celebrate the brigade’s history and congratulate members past and present for building the brigade into the community focal point it is today.

“The Burra Brigade has a proud history of community and spirit across 50 years of operations,” Mr Whan said.

“Although officially created in 1974, earlier records of the brigade and members go back to 1944, where some landowners in the area made use of an ex-army Blitz truck.”

“In the years since, the Brigade has been at the forefront of volunteering, supporting the community in preparing for the threat of fire and actively responding when emergencies arise.”

Superintendent Jones said the Burra Brigade continues to be a very active brigade, which attends a broad range of incidents including bush and grass fires, motor vehicle accidents, assisting with hazard reduction opportunities and attending incidents out of area.

“The Burra Brigade has attended some major fires over the last number of years including during the 2019/20 fire season, where all members of the brigade at the time received the National Emergency Medal for their outstanding efforts.

“I know the community is in safe hands with such a dedicated group of volunteers and I thank current and former members for their commitment,” he said.

“The hard work and professionalism of all RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, we should take this opportunity to acknowledge their contribution to their community.

“We must also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of these and all volunteers. We know it takes their support to help our members do what they do to save lives and property.”