Bannockburn Bushfire Brigade is celebrating a century of protecting the community from the danger of fire.
A community celebration was held on Saturday, April 5, with community members and emergency services marching down Milton Street alongside more than 20 trucks during a torchlight procession.
Member and community safety officer Dale Smith said it was “bloody brilliant” to see the brigade recognised after passionate Bannockburn residents formed it on January 28, 1925.
“To be continuing that legacy of those people back in 1925 who thought it’d be a damn good idea to form a bush fire brigade, it’s a real honour,” he said.
“The equipment might change over time, and some of the stuff we might have to do over time might change, but essentially, that’s what we’re there to do.
“Everyone likes getting on the big red truck. But it’s also the people you’re volunteering with that make it worthwhile. They’re all there for the same purpose.
“We’re ready to go out the door 365 days of the year, 24 hours a day, to serve and protect our community from fire. That’s what we’ve always done and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”
Captain Shannon Robinson said she was proud to be part of the brigade as it celebrated its special milestone and that it was a perfect time to reflect on what the brigade has done.
“We might have fancy new trucks and equipment, but the heart and backbone of our brigade is still our members,” she said.
“We are a great bunch of people, and it was fun marching, with our members side by side, it was a very proud moment.”
Jena Carr
