Release
An Airservices fire fighter with 45 years of distinguished service has been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in this year's Australia Day Honours list.
Since becoming an aviation rescue fire fighter in 1974, Station Officer Chris Goff has attended around 5000 operational incidents, including an emergency in Sydney in 1981 that saw him receive a Commendation for Brave Conduct Award for his actions.
Mr Goff, who is stationed in Sydney, said he was humbled to accept the award on behalf of all Airservices fire fighters.
"Teamwork is at the heart of this profession and critical to the work we do keeping passengers safe at Australia's airports," he said.
"The job is challenging but I love it and pass on my heartfelt thanks to everyone I've worked with."
Mr Goff, the 10th Airservices fire fighter to receive this award, is known for his excellent leadership skills and is well respected by his colleagues and peers.
Airservices Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Services Executive General Manager Rob Porter said Mr Goff has shown exemplary service and professional leadership during his 45-year career.
"His commitment and dedication to the development and support of staff combined with his sustained and ongoing operational leadership is of great credit to him and Airservices Australia," he said.
In 1981 Mr Goff was on duty at Sydney Airport when high winds caused a DC3 aircraft to break free from its moorings.
He and another fire fighter took swift action to avert a major airport emergency incident by using a fire tender to stop the plane
The Australian Fire Service Medal recognises distinguished service by members of both paid and unpaid fire services.
About Airservices
Airservices is Australia's air navigation service provider. It provides safe, secure, efficient and environmentally-responsible air traffic control, air navigation and aviation rescue fire-fighting services.
