For many weeks during early 2009, members and staff showed incredible dedication and courage. Operations Manager Mark Jones initiated a presentation for the hand out of the '09' certificates and badges. Mark wanted the day to be a memorable one for members involved over the campaign.
Leongatha RSL was generous enough to donate the room for our use. Approximately 100 members and staff from District 9 attended and, overall, 40 brigades were represented from the Mirboo, South Gippsland, Narracan, Leongatha-Korumburra and West Gippsland groups.
DPC Chairman Don Allan was MC for the day and he introduced Jan Southon, Acting Gippsland Regional Manager. Jan spoke of the brigades' involvement and commitment and the amount of area that was affected in Gippsland.
The 2009 fires are etched in the memories of so many members and it is important to show that we appreciate the incredible effort made by people during those trying times.
Jan introduced DCO Steve Warrington. Steve made a warm speech to all members in his formal address and then presented each brigade with its badge allocation along with a framed certificate as thanks.
OM Mark Jones then asked Dave Sherry, Regional Commander Southern Metro region, to accept the certificate on behalf of District 9 HQ. Dave held the Operations Manager position at District 9 during the 2009 fires. Dave gave a very moving talk and commented on the invaluable support from staff and volunteers during and after the fires.
The day concluded with a light lunch and lots of valuable mingling. Thanks to Noel McWilliams and OO David Chugg for the photos. Thank you to everyone who attended and made the day such a great success.
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