Geoff Erwin (right) was honoured with a 45 year Clasp and Honorary Life Membership and is pictured receiving his awards at the dinner from Country Fire Authority Board Member Don Robertson.
CALLAWADDA - There were plenty of reasons to celebrate for the Callawadda Fire Brigade over the past twelve months.
Member for Western Victoria, David O'Brien, was guest of the brigade and officially opened the new Callawadda Fire Station.
Mr O'Brien opened the new station in front of a large gathering of past and present members of the brigade, who enjoyed afternoon tea after the formalities had concluded.
Brigade captain, Stuart Reading said the new Callawadda Fire Station is a facility to meet future needs of the region and will provide improved service to the community.
Country Fire Authority Board Member, Don Robertson also travelled to Callawadda to present service awards to Callawadda Fire Brigade members.
J.D. Phillips, Tom Carson and Rod Byron were presented with their 50 year Clasp and Honorary Life Membership of the brigade.
W.G. (Scott) Fraser, Geoff Erwin and Ian Squire received their 45 year Clasp and Honorary Life Membership, Ian Taylor and Kevin Erwin their 40 year Clasp and Honorary Life Membership. Arthur Walter was unable to attend and has since been awarded his 60 year Clasp and Honorary Life Membership.
Arthur, J.D. Phillips, Tom Carson, Scott Fraser and Ian Taylor were also presented with Retirement Certificates of Appreciation for their service to the brigade.
Thirty year Clasps were presented to Stuart Reading, Terry Phillips, John McIlvride, Ian McIlvride, Dianne Erwin, Ian Carson, Pam Byron, Margie Taylor and Carol Walter, with Pam, Margie and Carol also receiving Retirement Certificates of Appreciation for their services to the brigade.
Linda Taylor and Michael Dignan received their 20 year Clasp, Julie Erwin and Tania Dignan received their 15 year Clasp, Kerry Carson and Wendy Squire their 10 year Clasp. Five year certificates were presented to Chris Carson, Leanne and Jessica Reading.