Mt Keira Brigade volunteers honoured at 50th anniversary

NSW RFS District Manager Superintendent Greg Wardle congratulated members past and present for building the brigade into the community institution it is today.

“Formed back in 1969, this brigade has a proud history of community service and spirit,” Superintendent Wardle said.

“Over the years, this brigade has put in a lot of effort developing its members and strengthening its relationship with the community.

“Today, the brigade 70 strong responds to a wide range of emergency incidents ranging from bush and grass fires, to motor vehicle accidents and fires, to lending a helping hand at community and fundraising events and helping residents prepare for the fire season.

“The brigade has responded to large-scale events such as the 1998 floods in the Wollongong area as well as assisted in the response to serious storms in the Sydney area.”

Superintendent Wardle said long serving volunteers will also be acknowledged with the presentation of nine Long Service Medals to nine recipients, representing a combined 187 years of service.

“I’d particularly like to mention Peter Dodd on his 50 years of service,” Superintendent Wardle said.

“Peter Dodd joined the NSW Bush Fire Brigades in October 1968 and became a member of the Darkes Forest Brigade before joining the reformed Mt Keira Brigade in March 1969.

“He has held many positions including Senior Deputy Captain and Deputy Captain during his service, where he has participated in property protection at large bushfire emergencies across the Illawarra region.”

“I’d also like to mention Andrew O’Hanlon on his 30 years of service, Adam Kelly on his 22 years and Daniel Leo on 21 years’ service to the brigade and community.”

Superintendent Wardle said the Illawarra area is afforded a world-class level of fire protection due to the experience and dedication of its 22 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 Rural Fire Service members do what they do,” Superintendent Wardle said.