Governor celebrates Warragul Fire Brigade’s 125 years' service to the community

The Governor of Victoria Professor David de Kretser congratulated the Warragul Fire Brigade on 125 years of dedicated service to the local community at an official presentation dinner in Warragul on August 15.

Governor de Kretser was joined by CFA Chairman Kerry Murphy to recognise the enormous contribution the brigade has made to its local area for more than a century.

(l to r) Gippsland General Manager Malcolm McKenzie, Victorian Governor David de Krester, Warragul Fire Brigade Captain Paul Tandberg and CFA Chairman Kerry Murphy gathered around one of the running reels that formed part of the historical display at Warragul brigade’s 125th presentation dinner.

Established in 1883, Warragul Fire Brigade has a long history of serving the local community.

“The volunteer spirit and ethos has allowed for a proud and valued tradition to continue within Warragul. It is a pleasure to help celebrate the achievement of the Warragul Fire Brigade tonight with past and present brigade members,” Governor de Kretser said.

“While doing a fantastic job within its own area, Warragul Fire Brigade has also assisted with emergencies far away from home such as the Canberra 2003 fire, deployments to the New South Wales fires and more recently, the Kangaroo Island Fires in December 2007.”

With many more Victorians choosing to live in provincial centres, Warragul has a rapidly growing population.

“It is a testament to the strength of the brigade that it has been able to cope with increased demand and grow with the community,” Governor de Krester said.

Governor de Kretser also presented CFA Long Service Awards, National Medal Awards and brigade awards during the dinner to Warragul members.

In his response to the Governor, Warragul Brigade Captain, Paul Tandberg said: "From its small beginnings in 1883 the Warragul Fire Brigade has prided itself in the committed service to the community, 'Always Ready' to help, and I find it an honour to be leading this fine community-minded brigade."

Paul Tandberg thanked the Governor on behalf of volunteers and was assisted by the Governor and Operations Manager David Sherry to hand out National Service awards, and the annual brigade awards.

The recipients of these awards were:

National Service Awards

• 12 years service award: Blake Coss
• 35 year service award: Graeme Patterson
• 12 year auxiliary service awards: Alan Potter and Pat Jones

Warragul Urban Fire Brigade annual awards

• Fire-fighter of the year: 2nd Lieutenant Paul Elliott
• Encouragement awards: Lesley-Anne Theunnissen and Ryan Weadley
• Comedy Award: Ryan Weadley
• Most Improved: Kaylene Peart
• Outstanding Achievement: 2nd Lt Paul Elliott
• Auxiliary Award: Mavis Cox