Geelong to host annual CFA Memorial Service

CFA’s annual memorial service dedicated to those CFA members who have lost their lives in the line of duty will be conducted at Geelong’s St Mary's of the Angels Basilica on Sunday the 4 May 2008 at 1.30pm.

Sixty-four CFA firefighters have died on operational service since the CFA organisation formed in 1944.

CFA General Manager for Barwon Corangamite Area Mr Paul Stacchino said it is an honour to have this service held in the city of Geelong.

“The commemorative service recognises the sacrifice of not only those members who lost their lives on duty, but also the dedication of all CFA people who continue to protect and support their local communities,” he said.

“This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the Ash Wednesday bushfires in which 14 CFA firefighters died while battling fires across Victoria.”

“While the memorial service is a CFA service, I warmly extend an invitation to members of the public to take the opportunity to attend," Mr Stacchino said.

CFA’s annual memorial service is held on the closest Sunday to 4 May, which is both International Firefighters Day and St. Florien’s Day (St. Florien is the Patron Saint of Firefighters).