Out with the old, in with the new

The weather could not have been better with the community and brigade coming together to swap firefighting stories, and commemorate the station upgrade.

The new station includes a double bay motor room, toilet and kitchenette facilities. It replaces a 40 year old building and will cater for the brigade’s current and future needs.

It has been relocated from its original place on Hinkleys Road, to the readily accessible Darlington Road site. This will enhance the turn out time of the brigade and is a more central location for the brigade to be based from.

Bookaar Fire Brigade Captain, Andrew Duynhoven made an excellent speech during the official proceedings, telling stories of how the brigade used to operate in comparison to how the brigade is today.

He said that often community members got together to play table tennis in the shed, while now you might drop by for a cup of tea.

One thing has remained unchanged - the Bookaar Fire Brigade is all about the people. This was evident by the welcome received at the station opening, which lasted well after the barbecue lunch supplied by the brigade was over.

Of the 45 members currently within the Bookaar Fire Brigade, 23 were presented with service medals, marking the appreciation shown by the CFA and the brigade, to the recipients. The total number of years recognised was a combined 620 years, which is a massive achievement by all concerned.

Dignitaries that attended the opening included Member for Western Victoria, Simon Ramsay MP, Corangamite Shire Mayor, Matt Makin, Councillor Geoff Smith, and CFA Barwon South West Regional Director, Bob Barry.

**Article by Jenna McMeel**