75 years of CFA

In 1945, a Royal Commission into the 1939 Black Friday fires recommended a single firefighting authority for country Victoria, bringing together the Bush Fire Brigades and Country Fire Brigades.

CFA has grown to be one of the largest volunteer-based emergency services organisations in the world with more than 52,000 volunteers and 2800 career firefighters, community educators and support personnel. CFA operates from 1219 brigades in 21 districts and five regions across Victoria.

There are many brigades across Victoria that were operating for decades before CFA was formally established.

The first volunteer fire brigades in Victoria were established in Geelong, Sandhurst and Creswick.

Unfortunately, due to social distancing guidelines in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we will not be able to celebrate in person. However, CFA CEO and Chief Officer Steve Warrington said today is an opportunity to reflect on all that CFA is and has been.

"Let us look back over the years and celebrate the enormous efforts of our people," Mr Warrington said.

"This is a celebration for not only CFA members but also the community we serve.

"Our members should be proud to continue to serve their communities for this longstanding and valuable organisation.

"Today marks 75 official years of serving the community and protecting lives and property. Happy birthday CFA."

CFA Board Chair Greg Smith AM said the incredible contributions made by brigades and CFA members to their communities over the past 75 years has helped CFA become an icon in many Victorian townships.

"When we think about the rich history of CFA, we think of the resilience, self-sacrifice and commitment shown by its members," Mr Smith said.

"With the advent of fire services reform approaching, it's clear that our commitment to volunteers into the future has never been stronger, which is good news for the Victorian communities we serve.

"This celebration should remind Victorians of the strong future ahead of CFA."