CFA annual memorial service

CFA will honour those members who have lost their lives in the line of duty at its annual memorial service this Sunday 3 May 2009 in Fiskville.

Arthurs Creek Volunteer Firefighter Joe Shepherd, who died of injuries sustained while fighting February’s bushfires, will be added to the honour roll.

The service will also recognise the sacrifice made by ACT firefighter David Balfour, while a plaque will be unveiled to commemorate the actions of 10 volunteers who died in December 1943 while fighting a fire at Tarrawingee, near Wangaratta.

Sixty-five CFA firefighters have lost their lives in operational service since the organisation was formed in 1944.

CFA Chief Officer Russell Rees said the tragic deaths of Joe Shepherd and David Balfour highlighted the risks that were inherent in firefighting.

“CFA is like a family and we feel their loss greatly. We owe them, and all our members, a great debt of gratitude.”

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

If you are planning to go to the service and have not yet sent an RSVP, contact Heather Lindup on 9262 8394 or email h.lindup@cfa.vic.gov.au.