Cherrybrook Rural Fire Brigade celebrates 70 years

Summary

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) members gathered last night to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Cherrybrook Rural Fire Brigade and honour the long-standing dedication and commitment to protecting the community by its members.

NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Mathew Smith was joined by Member for Hornsby, Matt Kean MP last night to celebrate the Brigade’s 70th anniversary at a special event held at Pennant Hills Bowling Club.

Assistant Commissioner Mathew Smith said the Cherrybrook Brigade was established in 1952 after a large fire burnt through Dural and Hornsby area and was initially known as the ‘Hornsby Shire Bush Volunteer Fire Brigade.

“It is humbling to celebrate how far this Brigade has come in 70 years as well as the incredible work the members do to protect not only the Cherrybrook community, but communities across New South Wales.”

“Over many years, Cherrybrook Brigade has played an important role in protecting the local community, as well as supporting others across the district and the state.” He said.

Cherrybrook Brigade assisted other brigades and communities right across NSW during the devastating 2019-20 fire season. The Brigade deployed crews to some of the largest blazes NSW has seen including Gospers Mountain and Green Wattle Creek fires.

“Most recently, Cherrybrook members have assisted with the flood events nearby in the Richmond, Wisemans Ferry and Hawkesbury areas.” Assistant Commissioner Smith said.

“Today is a great opportunity for the members of Cherrybrook to reflect on the brigade’s rich history, which is something that every one of you should be incredibly proud of.”

Cherrybrook Brigade was established in 1952 and has been an integral part of the local community for 70 years. The strong membership of more than 50 members participate in training, engagement with the community as well as responding to incident calls. Members have been involved in major fires and other disasters including the 2013 Blue Mountains fires, 2018 Berowra hailstorm, and 2019-20 bush fires.