Barwon Heads Fire Brigade (BHFB) recognised two of its longest-serving members, Captain John Crozier and Eddie Wilson, at its annual dinner and awards night last week.
Captain Crozier received his 50 Year CFA Life Member Medal and National Medal 3rd Clasp, while Mr Wilson received his National Medal 2nd Clasp for his 37 years of service.
The National Medal is available to both military personnel and civilians who serve in the police, fire, ambulance, corrective and emergency services for a minimum of 15 years.
Recipients must also undergo an assessment of conduct, and additional clasps are awarded for each ten-year period beyond the initial 15 years.
Captain Crozier said he was honoured to be presented with the awards, but deflected praise to his fellow BHFB members and also recognised the all-important support of the community.
“Congratulations to all those recognised, I am very proud to be part of an organisation that does such valued work in the community,” he said.
“So far we have turned out to 44 incidents this year, and that requires team effort and ongoing commitment to being available and training throughout the year.
“In addition, we could not be as effective without the support of many local businesses and community organisations who regularly donate so that we may purchase vital equipment.”
Both men highlighted the importance of people to the organisation and said the relationships they’d made along the way were the most rewarding aspect of their service.
“The CFA is all about its people,” Captain Crozier said.
“The members bring different expertises from their lives into the CFA, and that makes it the great organisation it is today.
“Over those 50 years I’ve met and retained many, many friends. The camaraderie and support is second to none, making the good times better and the tough times all the more manageable.”
Mr Wilson agreed, saying the BHFB had filled a void after he left military service.
“I can’t speak more highly of what the Barwon Heads Fire Brigade means to me,” Mr Wilson said.
“I felt lost after I left the Navy and the CFA gave me purpose again. This is a strong, hard working brigade, and being a volunteer firefighter is a great way to serve the community.”
