Illaroo Road Rural Fire Brigade celebrates 75 years

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers said he was honoured to celebrate the Brigade's 75 years of community service with its dedicated volunteers.

"I would like to sincerely thank all of the volunteers, both past and present, who have devoted so much of their time to transforming the Illaroo Road Brigade into the community institution it is today," Deputy Commissioner Rogers said.

"I know the Illaroo Road Brigade volunteers will continue to serve the local community for many years to come.

"The NSW RFS also recognises that this dedicated service would not be possible without the support of the volunteers' families and we thank them also."

The Illaroo Road Brigade was formed following devastating fires in 1938/39 which destroyed the Shoalhaven township of Yalwal and burnt thousands of hectares of bush and farmland.

Initially equipped only with rakes and sacks, the volunteers soon acquired additional equipment and build a shed at a location which the Brigade still calls home today.

As well as attending major fires, the Illaroo Road Brigade actively participates in a range of local events and community fire safety education programs.

Deputy Commissioner Rogers said Illaroo Road Brigade volunteers are highly regarded and well supported by the local community.

"The volunteers work tirelessly, not only in firefighting roles, but also to ensure the community has a high level of fire safety awareness," Deputy Commissioner Rogers said.

"Their hard work and professionalism doesn't go unnoticed and this is a great opportunity for the broader community to express their gratitude and say thank you."

The anniversary ceremony included the presentation of Life Membership plaques to Leon and Eileen Kielly and Dedication to Service plaques to the Wiffin family and Michael Evans.