Life Membership for Leo
Donald Fire Brigade members marked another busy year of service on Saturday night, with the brigade's annual awards dinner recognising long-serving volunteers, welcoming a new captain and celebrating the people behind the pager.
Before the formalities got under way, members raised a glass in memory of fallen firefighters and their families.
Outgoing captain Dale Anderson formally handed the brigade over to Broderick Harrison, presenting him with his captain’s helmet and epaulettes before stepping aside after his term in the role. Dale now takes on the position of Second Lieutenant, supported by Third Lieutenant Andrew Bayles and Fourth Lieutenant John Cook.
A Busy Year
The brigade has remained busy over the past 12 months.
Strike teams were deployed to major fires at Charlton, Patchewollock and Harcourt, while locally the brigade attended 17 fire and explosion incidents, numerous emergency medical response and road rescue call-outs, two good intent calls and three service calls.
Commander Shane Bailey congratulated members on another year of service to the community and acknowledged the sacrifices made by volunteers and those who support them.
“It is a pleasure to be here tonight and join you in celebrating the achievements, commitment and service of the members of the Donald Fire Brigade,” he said.
Support of Family
Whether attending fires, road crashes or storm damage, he said the brigade continued to deliver a high standard of service because volunteers were prepared to leave work, family and their own commitments behind whenever the pager sounded.
He also thanked the families, partners and employers who make that service possible.
“Behind every volunteer are people who have shared the demands and sacrifices that come with a lifetime of service.”
Donald continues to play an important role in CFA’s breathing apparatus capability across the region. After six years of planning, work is progressing on an extension to the fire station that will house a breathing apparatus cylinder filling compressor. Until now, cylinders have needed to be transported to Swan Hill for refilling, costing valuable time after major incidents.
Service Awards
The night’s presentations recognised a combined 175 years of service to the CFA.
Andrew Bayles and Jennifer Godkin each received 25 Year Service Medals.
Alongside his operational role, Andrew has served as Second Lieutenant, Brigade Training Officer, FEM Co-ordinator, Third District Group Officer and Group Health and Safety Officer.
Jennifer’s contribution has extended beyond the Donald brigade through 25 years of peer support work across the CFA.
Gerald “Gerry” Hazewinkel was recognised for 60 years of service.
Life Membership
Leo Allen received both his 65 Year Service Medal and Life Membership, recognising a remarkable lifetime with the brigade. His service has included roles as apparatus officer, foreman, Second Lieutenant, First Lieutenant, VFBV delegate and Brigade Health and Safety Officer.
The presentations weren't without a surprise. The penny began to drop for Leo Allen that the evening was going to be more than a routine awards dinner as more and more family members quietly arrived at the venue.
By the time Leo was called to the front of the room, the surprise was complete. One of his kids broke the silence with, “How much trouble are we in, Dad?” prompting laughter around the room.
“They should have put the red carpet out,” Leo joked before accepting his awards.
Looking back on 65 years with the brigade, Leo said there was nothing he would change.
“I don’t regret any year I’ve spent here. I’ve had a great time and I’ve enjoyed everyone who’s put the effort in to keep coming and stay involved.”
Firefighter of the Year
Firefighter of the Year went to Andrew Bayles.
Captain Broderick Harrison described the award as the brigade’s equivalent of a sporting club’s best club person award, recognising the countless jobs that keep the brigade functioning.
Andrew admitted the announcement caught him by surprise.
“I thought it would’ve gone to Brian because you put an amazing effort in this year. Thanks.”
Members rounded out the evening over a roast dinner prepared by Paul Brooks before settling in for a night of stories and plenty of catching up, with conversations continuing well into the early hours.
