North Rocks Rural Fire Brigade celebrates 75 years of service

NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott MP, will join NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner, Peter McKechnie and a host of special guests to congratulate members past and present for building up the brigade into the community focal point it is today.

“This brigade has a proud history and has put in a lot of effort developing its members over the years and strengthening its relationship with the community,” Mr Elliott said.

“The brigade was established in 1945 as the North Rocks-West Pennant Hills Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade, in what was then orchards and chicken farms. Members initially used their own vehicles, with a trailer acquired in 1958 and the first dedicated vehicle in 1966. A move to its current location in Carlingford was in 1979.”

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said the North Rocks Brigade was a very active Brigade of 85 members attending a range of incidents such as bush and grass fires and hazard reduction burns.

“During the Black Summer bush fires, North Rocks Brigade responded to fires as far afield as Glen Innes and Queanbeyan and spent significant time in the Hawkesbury on the Gospers Mountain fire on dedicated strike teams,” he said.

“After that devastating bush fire season the brigade received over 200 enquiries from community members wishing to join and 12 have now completed basic training to be welcomed as new members.”

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said the event was an opportunity to congratulate the brigade on this significant milestone and to thank members for their ongoing commitment and service.

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

He said the Hills District is afforded a world-class level of fire protection due to the experience and dedication of its 17 Rural Fire Brigades.

“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,” Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said.