“We started this Australia Day celebration 10 years ago, with around 30 firefighters and family members attending. It’s since grown to 200 people, which is quite big for our country location,” said Pound Creek Captain Peter Vanzuyden.
“It was a privilege to see the Chief Officer at work and fantastic to see how he dealt with the public. He shook every single person’s hand, spoke with all the junior members and elderly members and didn’t miss a beat. Kristen his wife was right alongside to support him and she was lovely,” Peter said.
“It was nice to see the Chief arrive in an open shirt. I stopped my speech midway to undo my tie - with respect to the boss!
“Euan spoke about Command and Control and the importance of local decision making, and then spoke of how proud he is of the 60,000 volunteers. We all stood there with our chests expanded, as he described us as great men who give up so much for the safety of our community.
“It was the best day our brigade has had as far as community involvement is concerned. We had so many people here at the station and it really put us on the map. People came from the Leongatha and Wonthaggi brigades and couldn’t believe we had the Chief there.
“I’m grateful to the Chief for making the time available. While we were warned that he wouldn’t be able to make it if a total fire ban was declared, we didn’t expect him to get an invitation from the Prime Minister for the same day!
“I’d like to thank the ladies auxiliary for catering the whole event, as well as the
Service medals were given out on the day:
- 5 years - Peter McFarlane
- 10 years - Peter Vanzuyden, Peter Clarke
- 15 years - Stewart Malcolm, Peter Davis, Roger Davis 20 years - Daryl Hook, David Walker, Greg Frank
- 25 years - John Payne
- 30 years - Alan Price
- 40 years - Ken Harris, Harry Cashin
- 45 years - Ernie Ronalds, Gordon Laver (both absent from the ceremony)
Photos courtesy of Simone Short, The Great Southern Star.
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